Gambian Trainers Upgrade In Global Standards At Regional Maritime University

In an effort to enhance operational efficiency and safety standards at the Gambia Port Authority, four trainees including Jammeh Adiatou, Jahna Mamat, Colley M. Landing, and Nyang Ousaninou from Gambia commenced a journey infused with a deep dedication to excellence at the Regional Maritime University in Accra.

The training program provided the group with a holistic education, seamlessly blending theoretical frameworks with hands-on practical experiences which delved deep into the intricacies of lift truck operation as forklift operators.

The Gambians underwent a comprehensive curriculum designed to sharpen their technical expertise and align their methodologies with globally accepted standards.

Throughout the training, the Gambian officials engaged in rigorous classroom sessions, fostering an environment conducive to learning and unlearning outdated practices. Through this process, they assimilated the fundamental principles underpinning lift truck operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols recognized internationally.

Beyond theoretical exploration, the group seized the opportunities for practical application, enabling them to translate newfound knowledge into actionable skills by immersing themselves in real-world scenarios, sharpened their abilities to navigate the complexities of lift truck operation with accuracy and confidence.

The significance of this training extended beyond personal development, as the Gambian trainers undertook the responsibility of imparting knowledge to lay a official of the National Association of Heavy-Duty Equipment Operators Ghana (NAHEOG), to enforce their own understanding and also facilitate the dissemination of industry best practices within their home country.

Integral to the training was the rigorous examination process, serving as a litmus test for the efficacy of their education. By evaluating their aptitude in both theoretical comprehension and practical application, the examination reaffirmed the trainers’ commitment to upholding global standards and ensuring the safety of both trainees and trainers alike.

In an interview, Jahna Mamat, one of the trainees, expressed excitement about their return to the Gambia Port Authority, now armed with newfound expertise. “Our journey symbolizes a steadfast commitment to excellence and safety within the maritime industry and armed with a comprehensive understanding of lift truck operations plus a dedication to imparting knowledge, we aim to elevate operational standards and foster a culture of safety in this professional space” he said.

He also highlighted the deepening relationship between Gambia and Ghana, advocating for more of such trainings to build a robust sector for heavy-duty machine operators lauding the efforts of the Regional Maritime University and NAHEOG for the training and emphasizing its role in creating new opportunities for youth in the region and worldwide.

The four whose training on intensive training on Lift Truck Instruction commenced on May 24th and ended on the 7^th of June, 2024 have since been offered certification on training acquired and departed to their home country, Gambia after the training.

BY: Mabel Delassie Awuku -ISD