By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, March 26, GNA – Mr. Richard Gyan Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, has called on the Energy Commission to enhance training programmes for electricians to curb market fires.
He said there were significant economic losses and property damage caused by poor electrical installations, often attributed to unqualified electricians and substandard materials.
Mr Mensah made the call during a graduation ceremony for 382 newly certified electricians from the Greater Accra, Eastern, and Volta regions in Accra.
The ceremony held on the theme: “Enhancing Electrical Safety and Compliance Through Technology: the Installation Completion Certificate Application (ICAP),” underscored the government’s focus on ensuring safety and technological innovation in the electrical installation industry.
The Deputy Minister said the government was committed to safety and technological innovation within the electrical installation industry.
“Over the years, Ghanaians have witnessed many safety hazards, property damage, and economic losses due to poor electrical installation stemming from the work of unqualified electricians and the utilisation of substandard electrical materials,” he added.
He said this had created a need for more qualified, properly trained, and certified electricians, who adhered to safety protocols and complied with industry best practices.
Mr Mensah expressed concern over the recurring fires in market spaces, attributing many of these incidents to faulty electrical wiring.
He urged the Energy Commission to undertake periodic public education and awareness campaigns on the use of energy-efficient targets, and quality electrical cables and appliances, particularly in markets and informal settlements.
“These days, I think we can see or witness some fires that are occurring around our market spaces. And most times, most people attribute them to poor electrical wiring, which I think is important that we all take note of,” he said.
The Deputy Minister commended the Energy Commission for its efforts in training and certifying electrical professionals but stressed the importance of continuous professional development and robust feedback mechanisms.
He urged the Commission to engage with the graduates and monitor their performance regularly.
“This graduation ceremony should not end the relationship between the Energy Commission and the graduates. I would therefore urge the Energy Commission to engage with the graduates and monitor their performance regularly.
“The Energy Commission should also develop a continuous professional development programme and a robust feedback mechanism for the graduates,” he said.
He called on the newly certified electricians to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and diligence, and to desist from using inferior and substandard electrical cables in their work.
Mrs. Eunice Biritwum, Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, underscored the pivotal role of technology in advancing electrical safety.
She emphasised how digital tools were revolutionising the industry, enabling faster inspections, streamlined compliance, and ultimately, safer electrical installations.
She urged the graduates to embrace these innovations, recognising that technology was not just a convenience, but a critical component in safeguarding communities and driving the future of electrical work.
Graduates received certificates and prizes were awarded to the best graduating candidates.
Mr. Ansah Abraham Gyekye was adjudged the overall best candidate and Best Commercial Candidate, while Miss Martins Alexandria Ahsley was also adjudged the best female candidate.
GNA
CA/