Eskom Uganda has passed out 25 graduate Engineers who will operate at the Karuma and Isimba Dams after, undergoing a 3 months training in hydro power generation engineering at Nalubaale hydro power station.
The trainees were seconded by UEGCL which is the government implementing agency for the flagship hydro power projects of Karuma and Isimba Dams. These two projects, are scheduled for commissioning in 2018 and 2019 respectively.
Speaking at the pass out ceremony held at the Eskom plant in Jinja, the Managing Director Thozama Gangi noted that one of Eskom’s top most priorities as a generation company, is to transfer critical skills to Ugandans for the growth of the energy sector in the country. “In line with government’s focus on Skilling the youth, Eskom is already making a contribution towards taking Uganda to a middle income economy by 2020,” said Thozama.
She further cautioned the trainees to put to good use the skills acquired for the overall development of the energy sector in Uganda. “Uganda needs your services regardless of wherever you will be posted. Do your best and make positive contribution for the growth of the sector,” she noted.
Since commencement of our operation in Uganda in April 2003, about 390 Ugandan graduate trainees have been absorbed by Eskom to gain hands on experience in hydro generation engineering.
Eskom has continued to offer a continuous industrial training of 30 students per annum. Over the last 14 years of electricity generation in Uganda, Eskom has adopted prudent Utility practices to ensure that it meets dispatch demands and generate enough electricity for the country.
Eskom has been able to assemble competent staff with immense experience in operations and maintenance and have not only continued to excel in providing reliable and affordable electricity for national development but also to impart useful skills to young graduates.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Ian Sedirimba hailed Eskom for the selfless service its rendering to the nation in as far as skills transfer policy is concerned. He said the skills they have received from Eskom will be equitably utilized in the upcoming plants such as Isimba and Karuma dams.