Second batch of Ugandan students embark on oil & gas training abroad
A second batch of 100 Ugandans setting off for advanced studies in Oil & Gas operations and maintenance in France, Malaysia, and Oman. Photo | Eve Muganga
What you need to know:
- This group represents the initial cohort from a total of 200 trainees selected through the Tilenga Academy Massive Open Online Course conducted in 2022.
The second batch of 100 young Ugandans is set to commence advanced studies in Oil & Gas operations and maintenance in France, Malaysia, and Oman.
This group represents the initial cohort from a total of 200 trainees selected through the Tilenga Academy Massive Open Online Course conducted in 2022.
According to Mr Philippe Groueix, General Manager, TotalEnergies EP Uganda, the transformative journey began in April 2024 with initial training for the students at Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK). After successfully completing the first phase of training, the students will acquire additional training and international certification in Production, Electrical, Mechanical, Production, and Instrumentation.
"The 2 and a half-year program included theoretical and practical training in Oil and Gas Production, Maintenance, and Health, Safety, and Environment, conducted by UPIK and Dietsmann, the Maintenance, Operations and Execution Contractor," Mr. Groueix said while sending off the second batch of 100 students at Lugogo Mall on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
The first batch of 100 students departed on April 3, 2025. Mr. Groueix expressed pride in the progress achieved by the selected students, saying, "We are exceptionally proud of the progress achieved by our selected students. The Academy program is structured to provide them with extensive training, equipping them with essential skills and international certifications necessary for their roles in this significant project once production commences."
The international training will last for 18 weeks in the respective countries, followed by five weeks for all students in France. Upon completion, the students will receive an Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization certification, increasing their employability globally.
The trainees will be deployed in various specialised positions, including 29 per cent in Production, 23 per cent in Mechanical Maintenance, 23 per cent in Instrumentation Maintenance, 14 per cent in Electrical Maintenance, 6 per cent in Laboratory, and 1 per cent in Inspection.
Lucky Arinda, a female trainee in the Tilenga Academy, expressed her excitement, saying, "This is going to change my life because it's a good opportunity for a girl, and I am sure my life will not remain the same and the entire country. Since childhood, I loved being an engineer, and I am happy that my dream has come true, and I thank TotalEnergies EP Uganda for also giving this opportunity to girls."
