University Explores Partnership For Heavy Equipment Training

In a significant move toward expanding technical education and certification opportunities, a delegation led by the President of the National Association of Heavy-duty Equipment Operators Ghana (NAHEOG), Dominic Kofi Eyiah paid a working visit to the Takoradi Technical University.

The visit was meant to conduct a feasibility study on a potential partnership to introduce specialized training programs in heavy-duty equipment operation, addressing a critical industry need.

NAHOEG which has been in partnership with the Regional Maritime University and operational for the past five years has successfully run similar programs for the past three years and seeks to extend its impact to the western region of the country.

The representatives, including key executives, visited the university to assess its facilities, personnel, and overall preparedness to support such an initiative

The Pro. Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Victor Kweku Bondzie Micah expressed interest in the partnership and expressed it as fostering discussions.

According to him, the university executives have welcomed the proposal, emphasizing the potential benefits of integrating certification programs into their engineering faculty.

“The initiative aligns with global trends, where specialized certifications complement traditional degree programs, offering students and professionals enhanced career opportunities” he emphasized.

The university has therefore assured the delegation of its commitment to supporting the initiative, confirming that the institution will do everything within its means to facilitate the smooth execution of the partnership.

Throwing more light on the university, professor Bondzie explained that the university currently runs engineering programs and related technical training, making it an ideal environment for the proposed certification courses.

Dominic Kofi Eyiah, the president of the National Association of Heavy-duty Equipment Operators Ghana highlighted that one of the primary motivations behind the partnership is to decentralize training opportunities adding that currently, members of the association from the western region must travel to Accra for certification, facing challenges such as accommodation, transportation risks, and logistical constraints.

“Establishing a training centre at the Takoradi Technical University will mitigate these issues while fostering skills development and job creation,” he said.

Mr. Eyiah, further stated that the certification program is designed to be accessible, allowing individuals with basic literacy and a valid driver’s license to enroll adding that the training will be flexible, with short-duration courses conducted on weekends and evenings to accommodate working professionals.

In addition to assessing facilities, the delegation discussed the legal framework of the partnership, with the university’s legal team set to review the MOU. The visiting team also expressed eagerness to align with the association’s reputable brand, recognizing the global significance of such technical certifications.

The feasibility study marks a crucial first step in what is expected to be a transformative collaboration. If successful, the MOU will have an initial four-year lifespan, with potential extensions based on performance and impact.

As both institutions move toward finalizing the agreement, stakeholders remain optimistic about the mutual benefits of the partnership. The university sees this as an opportunity to enhance its educational offerings, while the association aims to bring accessible and industry-relevant training to a broader audience. The collaboration is poised to make a lasting impact on workforce development in the region.