Zambia Flying Labs Relaunches with the University Of Zambia and Supporting Partners

Since its official launch last year, Zambia Flying Labs has been building local capacity through drone training, promoting STEM education, and creating awareness about the emerging opportunities from robotic and AI technologies in their country. Led by Subi Thomas, director of iDrone Services, Zambia Flying Labs partnered with the School of Engineering at the University of Zambia and iKAN Konsult to continuously improve their programs and solutions for meaningful socio-economic impact in their communities.  

Flying Labs are local knowledge-hubs that are run entirely by local experts. Flying Labs decide for themselves which activities to carry out and with whom to partner. WeRobotics serves as an enabler, a facilitator for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and opportunity transfer when Flying Labs request it.

Flying Labs are operating in nearly 30 countries across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, all driven by local demand. Flying Labs joins the network through a franchising model (which you can learn more about here). Any local organisation that fulfills the criteria and is aligned with the network’s values and activities can apply for a Flying Labs in their country. Or join an existing Flying Labs through an official partnership. Licenses are provided annually, with an extensive interviewing process for the first year, followed by a yearly evaluation with the Flying Labs for the renewal. 

iDrone coordinated Zambia Flying Labs for its first year. However, due to relocation, iDrone cannot renew their license to continue leading Zambia Flying Labs and so they are passing the torch on to the School of Engineering at the University of Zambia. The University of Zambia, with its supporting partners, TerraVia Aerial Services and iCan Drone Solutions, have completed our yearly evaluation and re-application process. They will take the lead and coordinate Zambia Flying Labs’ upcoming activities. Congratulations to the new team of Zambia Flying Labs!

Our sincere thanks go to Subi Thomas and iDrone Services for their excellent leadership and their efforts to contribute to the Power of Local for the first year of Zambia Flying Labs.