‘PIAMS to bridge knowledge-gap in aviation’

KARACHI: Captain Suhail Baluch, chairman of PALPA Institute of Aviation and Management Sciences (PIAMS), has said that the first-ever aviation institute of the country is striving to bridge the knowledge-gap of the country’s professionals to keep pace with the dynamics of international aviation business, according to a statement.

Addressing an introductory session on first Masters in business aviation degree, he said, ‘Our inability to keep pace with the evolving trends of international aviation and the knowledge-gap of our professionals vis a vis the international aviation standards and regulations has been identified as a major factor contributing to the downfall of Pakistan’s aviation industry,’ he said.

Thus, he adds, in the current scenario, the establishment of PIAMS is a breath of fresh air and provides hopes for the revival of the local aviation industry.

‘PIA, the national flag carrier, which was once a symbol of national pride and was known all over the world for excellence, is now a pale shadow of its glorious past,’ he said ruefully.

He was of the view that although a number of private airlines have sprung up in recent years and have begun domestic and international operations, Pakistan’s commercial aviation sector, once a thriving and vibrant industry, is facing multiple challenges today.

‘The security situation in the region preceding and following 9/11 and a general apathy of successive governments in Pakistan in addressing the law and order situation have adversely affected the country’s tourism industry to an extent that tourists’ inflow to Pakistan is but a mere trickle in recent times,’ he added.

So, said Suhail, after an auspicious beginning, it is hoped that PIAMS would fill the void of an educational institute in the field of aviation management and to become a vital exponent for the revival of Pakistan’s ailing aviation industry in the years to come.

PIAMS has been recognised by the government of Sindh and is affiliated with the University of Karachi. PIAMS is the first educational institute of the country offering BBA and MBA programs in the discipline of Aviation Management. Supported by PIA and CAA, the Institute has already completed its first semester of BBA and MBA programs.

‘The Institute is also educationally linked with the world renowned Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), USA - known as the Harvard of Aviation Management,’ said Baluch, adding that the institute has a galaxy of experienced and qualified faculty which ensures uncompromising high standards with an aim to produce the badly needed high-quality human resource for the local aviation industry.

He said that Pakistan’s aviation professionals can now earn ERAU degree from the institute which will almost guarantee them a well-paid job in the local or international aviation sectors.

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