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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 23754, member: 2262"] Uganda Boosts Local Participation in Oil and Gas Sector with Augmented Reality Welding Training. KAMPALA, Uganda - Uganda is ramping up efforts to increase local participation in its thriving oil and gas industry. The country is equipping Ugandan welders with specialized skills needed for critical infrastructure projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP). Contractors have conducted advanced training using augmented virtual reality welding simulators. This is in response to the country's shortage of skilled welders. The Soldamatic augmented reality welding training tool provides an alternative to traditional methods. It minimizes material waste and enhances workplace safety. These innovative tools give welders hands-on experience in accordance with international certification standards and ensure that welders meet the strict requirements of the oil and gas industry. Dennis Kamurasi, Director of Business Development at SCOG Elite Uganda Limited, said Uganda previously missed many opportunities in the sector. This was due to a lack of skilled manpower, especially in welding. "Thanks to efforts by the government and private sector players, the skilling gap has been reduced," Kamurasi said. He also serves as vice chairperson of the Association of Uganda Oil and Gas Service Providers. Kamurasi noted that with the ongoing drive to develop the sector, there is a need to increase local content. This involves skilling Ugandans and preparing them for employment opportunities. This approach aims to improve the country's workforce and ensure that Ugandans benefit directly from the oil and gas boom. It also reduces reliance on foreign labor. "With the augmented reality machine, we give learners the ability to keep practicing. We can simulate actual real conditions, pipe types, and materials. It's like doing actual welding," Kamurasi explained. The initiative is expected to bridge the skills gap and create sustainable employment opportunities for Ugandans. It does this by investing in modern training techniques and emphasizing international certification. During the augmented virtual training workshop, stakeholders called for a revision of the curriculum to involve industrialists. Ssezibwa Ronald, CEO and Senior Welding Technician at Seb Engineering Services Limited said involving industrialists in training institutions will improve the quality of welders. "There is a need for actual standard training. This can only be achieved when training institutes involve industrialists in the education system," Ssezibwa said. Prof. Charles Kwesiga, Executive Director of Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba, said there is an urgent need to move from traditional to modern skilling methods. [/QUOTE]

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