KAMPALA, Uganda — One hundred Ugandan students have commenced advanced training in oil and gas operations and maintenance in France, Malaysia, and Oman, preparing them for deployment on the Tilenga project during the production phase.
This initial cohort is part of a larger group of 200 trainees selected through the Tilenga Academy Massive Open Online Course conducted in 2022. The students underwent initial training at Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) in April 2024, covering theoretical and practical training in oil and gas production, maintenance, and health, safety, and environment.
After completing the first phase of training, the students are being sent abroad to acquire additional training and international certification in production, electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation. This 18-week international training will be followed by a five-week program in France, culminating in an Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization certification.
TotalEnergies EP Uganda General Manager Philippe Groueix expressed pride in the students’ progress, emphasizing the company’s commitment to developing Ugandan talent and creating shared value for Uganda.
The students will be deployed in various specialized positions upon completing their training, including production, mechanical maintenance, instrumentation maintenance, electrical maintenance, laboratory, and inspection.
Rania Birungi, a female trainee in the Tilenga Academy, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, stating that it will enable her to make a significant contribution to her country and build a rewarding career.
The training institutions involved in the program include TLS/Oleum in France, INSTEP in Malaysia, and TPO in Oman. These institutions provide world-class training and internationally accredited certifications, ensuring that the students receive the highest quality education and training.
The next cohort of 100 students, who commenced their UPIK training in October 2024, will also receive similar exposure upon completing their program later this year.
