Is it permissible to travel to South Africa for civil aviation studies, given the mother's desire for her son to stay by her side, knowing that the son will cover the costs of study and living, and that the college provides job opportunities after graduation?

There is no harm in traveling without the mother's permission for the mentioned purpose, but it is advisable to strive to convince her and to involve someone she respects. If the mother is not pleased with the travel and there is no harm in not traveling, then it is more virtuous to obey her and stay with her, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Stay with her, for Paradise is beneath her feet."