The second batch of trained mobile crane and forklift operators have graduated on Wednesday in Accra.

The training conducted under the Memorandum of Understanding between the Regional Maritime University (RMU) and the National Association for Heavy-duty Operators of Ghana (NAHEOG) saw graduates being presented with certificates.

The programme covered the safe operation of forklifts and mobile cranes , with emphasis on safety protocols and industry best practices as well as equipped individuals with the necessary skills to remain relevant in the job market.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony on the theme “Equipping the youth with employable skills: The role of corporate organisations”, the President of NAHEOG, Dominic Kofi Eyiah, emphasized the importance of the youth acquiring skills that would prepare them for the job market.

He said the youth were the future and that it was imperative they were prepared with the right skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workforce.

“If the youth are not well-prepared for the job market, they can find themselves ill-prepared to meet the challenges of today’s job market and beyond” he stated.

Mr Eyiah charged corporate organizations to support the training of the youth, particularly in the area of skills development saying “corporate organizations can partner with educational institutions to create curricula that are aligned with the current job market demands.”

He explained that by tailoring educational initiatives to real-world needs, corporate organizations could help to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

He pledged his outfit’s support to continue to provide employable skills to the youth, pointing out that “the youth are the driving force behind our future prosperity, and it is our collective responsibility to prepare them adequately for the challenges that lie ahead.”

The Provost of the university, Dr Denis Njumo Atehnjia, who spoke on behalf of the university’s Vice Chancellor, said RMU “has been steadfast in its mission to equip the youth with the skills and knowledge required for meaningful employment.”

He said the changing dynamics of the job market required individuals to acquire skills and that “those who have recognised this are developing themselves skills-wise and are excelling.”

Dr. Atehnjia commended the graduates for their decision to acquire technical skills, saying “The path you have taken to become proficient forklift and mobile crane operators is indeed not just merely about operating heavy machinery but also about the pursuit of excellence and the dedication to mastering a trade and the courage to embrace challenges.”

The Operations Manager of the Meridian Port Services, Mr Emmanuel Ohene Addo, who served as the Guest of honour, urged corporate bodies to assist academic institutions in the training of new graduates.

For him, the input of corporate bodies in the academic training would help to train the right calibre of professionals and graduate for the various industries in the country and beyond.

He expressed the concern that even though many corporate organisations complain that graduates do not match up their demands, some corporate organisations refuse to accept trainees for internship opportunities.

“We would not be able to equip the youth with employable skills if we leave it solely to the institutions,” Mr Ohene Addo explained.

By Benedicta Gyimaah Folley