A total of 160 Ugandan wielders were passed after two months of specialized training in wielding the China National Offshore Oil Company (CNOOC) Uganda Ltd in partnership with Sunmaker Oil and Gas Training Institute and Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba.
The two months of training equipped trainees with proper techniques, theory, and practical based knowledge using Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW.
The training courses encompassed skills required in the welding industry, with emphasis on tubular assemblies.
This is yet another program conducted as part of the National Content Enhancement activities for the Kingfisher Development Area (KFDA) Project, to empower and enhance the knowledge of local technicians through training towards international certification.
The training comprised two sets including the first 80 who were trained in SMAW 1G, 2G, and 3G; and the second cohort which was trained under the SMAW 4G, 5G, and 6G welding.
Both trainings comply with the International Standards of the American Welding Society (AWS) and American Petroleum Institute (API). The second group of another 80 students received training that follows the same International Standards of AWS and API.
CNOOC in a statement said that the major goal of 3G and 6G welding courses is to prepare participants for oil and gas piping systems including pipeline and refinery constructions. The welding involves assembling, maintaining, and installing structural units.
These 160 Ugandan students originated from the Albertine region districts of Hoima, Kikuube, Nwoya, Masindi, Buliisa, Kibale, Kiryandongo, Kakumiro, Kagadi, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Sembabule, Lwengo, Rakai and Kyotera.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Hon. Peter Lokeris, the current Minister of State for Mineral Development, thanked CNOOC Uganda Limited for the various skilling and training programs that are making more Ugandans ready and able to participate in the oil and gas industry.
She said such tangible skills are the best path to gain lasting value from the industry by the people. Mr. Ma Peixin, Vice President, CNOOC Uganda Limited retaliated
“CNOOC Uganda Limited is committed to the development of capacity in Uganda’s oil and gas industry through the promotion of national content thereby fostering lasting social economic development of the host community and Uganda at large.”
He added that this is in line with CNOOC Uganda Limited’s vision of ‘Oil for Better Life’ that seeks to create better conditions for all people in Uganda.
Other national content training and skilling programs undertaken by CNOOC Uganda Limited include; Train the Trainer, Welders Certification, Heavy Good Vehicle Certification, Heavy Equipment Training, Enterprise Development, and the Community Supplier Development programs.
Naija Rosemary, one of the trained welders thanked CNOOC Uganda Limited for the opportunity given to her and her classmates to train and get certified in welding that is not only recognized in Uganda but also internationally. CNOOC Uganda Limited remains dedicated to responsible corporate citizenship and continues to explore initiatives that drive positive social impact and foster inclusive growth
