By Buertey Francis BORYOR
A total of 64 young people have graduated from the Regional Maritime University (RMU) after successfully completing training programmes in forklift and mobile crane operation.
The graduation ceremony, held in Accra, marked the 7th cohort of the initiative- aimed at developing skilled labour for the country’s growing industrial sector.
The graduates included 31 forklift operators and 33 mobile crane operators, trained in partnership with the National Association of Heavy-Duty Equipment Operators Ghana (NAHEOG).
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jethro W. Brooks Jnr., Acting Vice Chancellor of RMU, said the training programme reflects the university’s commitment to practical education that meets industry demands.
He added that, technical training is vital for Africa’s development agenda and encouraged other institutions to play their part.
“The theme for today- ‘Skilled Labour for Accelerated Industrialisation’- could not have come at a better time. Without skilled workers, industries cannot grow. But with trained professionals like those graduating today, real progress becomes possible,” he noted.
Dr. Brooks also announced that RMU is expanding its technical training programmes to include Heavy-Duty Mechanics, Accident Investigation, and Rigging Technician courses. These new additions are designed to respond to industry demand and provide graduates with practical skills that are both relevant and marketable.
“These are not just new programmes- they are part of our plan to give students the tools they need to succeed in modern industry,” he noted.
The Vice Chancellor further indicated that the university is ready to support national efforts to reduce youth unemployment by working with the National Youth Authority (NYA) under the National Apprenticeship Programme. He said RMU has the facilities and expertise to help train thousands of young people.
“We were proud to support a similar programme during the first term of President Mahama. Many of those trainees are now employed or running their own businesses. We are ready to do it again,” he said.
He called on the National Youth Authority (NYA) to partner with the University under the National Apprenticeship Programme, which plans to train 10,000 youth this year and up to 100,000 by 2026.
Mr. Dominic Kofi Eyiah, President of NAHEOG, in his address, also described the occasion as a proud moment not just for the students but for nation’s industrial workforce.
He said the skills gained by the trainees will help power key sectors of the economy.
“From warehouses to construction sites, your work keeps businesses moving. Forklift and crane operators may seem like a small part of the system, but they are crucial to making sure development plans are carried out, he said.
Mr. Eyiah urged government and private partners to continue investing in skills training. He stressed that such investments are not charity, but a strategic move to build the country’s workforce.
He also encouraged the graduates to stay updated with new technologies and safety standards and to view the graduation not as the end of their education but as a stepping stone.
“Lifelong learning is essential. Equipment will change, industries will evolve- you must keep growing with them,” he said.
During the event, top-performing students received certificates to recognise their excellence. Proud family members, lecturers, and invited guests cheered as the graduates received their awards.
