AMSTERDAM – Three students from the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool van Amsterdam) have embarked on an internship with the aviation authorities of Curaçao and Aruba as part of the newly launched Cari-Aire Aviation Internship Program. The program was officially introduced last week at the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Curaçao in The Hague.
Cari-Aire is an initiative of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, in collaboration with the aviation authorities of the Caribbean islands and the foundation WeConnect.
Strengthening the Aviation Sector in the Caribbean
The program aims to bolster the aviation sector across the six islands of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, providing young professionals with hands-on experience in areas such as inspection, regulations, and policy development. The aviation industry faces a shortage of qualified personnel and an aging workforce, making this new generation of interns a valuable asset to the sector.
The participating students are currently pursuing degrees in Aviation Studies at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences.
Ghyslaine Sambo (22) is undertaking an exploratory internship with the aviation authorities and hopes to inspire other Caribbean students to pursue careers in the field.
Charles Huntington (24), originally from Aruba, is interning at the Aruban aviation authority, focusing on safety regulations and legislation.
Abdullah Kendir (27), who has prior work experience at Schiphol Airport, is completing his studies with an internship in Curaçao.
Aviation as a Vital Sector
Speaking at the launch, Marjan van Giezen, a member of the Aviation Management Team at the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, emphasized the critical role of aviation for the Caribbean islands. She highlighted that air connectivity is essential for the transportation of people and goods, as well as for access to education and healthcare.
According to WeConnect, the internship program was rapidly developed thanks to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved. The organization expects that more students will have the opportunity to participate in the future, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Caribbean aviation sector.
