A partnership between CNOOC Uganda Limited, Sunmaker Oil and Gas Training Institute and Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) has seen 160 Ugandans graduate in welding techniques for the oil andgas activities in Uganda.

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

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

The 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.