McDonald’s in Alberton Crossing will host a fund-raising event on December 9 to assist Thokoza-born piloting student Mcuphi Nkombi to cover R17 300 in outstanding academic fees.
The event will begin from 4pm to 7pm to help him complete his aviation course and to also purchase the equipment he needs.
Nkombi will get 10 per cent from the sales made during the time period with drive-through sales excluded.
Following what they described as an unsuccessful fund-raiser a month ago, the restaurant wants to get more people on board to support Nkombi in his academic journey to obtain his commercial pilot licence (CPL).
Thabile Dube from McDonald’s said she is positive that they will at least reach the target after two schools showed their support and placed orders in advance. Dube said she has been receiving a positive response from people so far.
Nandulwazi High School ordered 205 meals and Khehlekile Primary School ordered approximately 60 meals.
The 31-year-old obtained his private pilot licence in May 2018. He recently started training towards a CPL.
He said to meet the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) requirements to get a CPL he will need 80 hours’ flying on his own, which is already paid for by TETA, including a multi-engine, instrument rating training and flight tests.
Although TETA has paid for most of the training, the student is struggling financially as the bursary could not cover everything.
“There are 10 SACAA theory exams to pass with a 75 per cent mark. I have passed two of the theory exams with limited resources. I need some of the flying equipment and the study material to prepare for the exams,” said Nkombi.
To support Nkombi, visit McDonald’s on December 9 and buy in-store. Ten per cent of the sales will be directed towards Nkombi’s school fees as well as the required equipment.
