To facilitate the participation of Ugandans in the country’s oil and gas industry, CNOOC Uganda Limited, in collaboration with Sunmaker Oil and Gas Training Institute, and Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UOIK) last week passed out 160 Ugandans who were skilled in welding techniques for the oil and gas activities.

The two months training equipped trainees with proper techniques, theory and practical based knowledge using SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding). The training courses encompass skills required in the welding industry, with emphasis on tubular assemblies.

The program conducted is part of the National Content enhancement activities for the Kingfisher Development Area (KFDA) Project. It aims to empower and enhance the knowledge of local technicians through training towards international certification.

This program comprised of the first set of 80 students trained in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) 1G, 2G, and 3G welding which follows the International Standards of American Welding Society (AWS) and American Petroleum Institute (API).

The second group of another 80 students received training in 4G, 5G and 6G SMAW which follows the same International Standards of AWS and API. 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.

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.