Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) has initiated a collaboration with technical institutions in Cape Coast to equip students with the skills needed for the ongoing development of the country’s first nuclear power plant.
A seven-member delegation from NPG recently visited Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) and Cape Coast Technical Institute (CCTI) to discuss how to prepare the next generation of skilled workers for the nuclear industry.
The visit is part of a broader strategy to build a highly skilled local workforce for the project, which is currently in its second phase, involving site selection and feasibility studies. Three potential sites have been identified for the nuclear power plant – one in the Central Region and two in the Western Region.
Bridging the Skills Gap
During the meeting, Dr. Archibald Kwofie, Acting Director of the Nuclear Power Institute at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, emphasized the need to bridge the skills gap within the country’s technical and vocational training system.
He noted that the nuclear industry requires over 90 specialized professions, including welders, electricians, pipefitters, plumbers, and masons – roles that are currently underrepresented in the country’s technical education curricula.
“The industry thrives on highly skilled people, and so we need to find a way to beef up what we currently have,” Dr. Kwofie stressed.
He highlighted that a significant portion of the nuclear power workforce would be involved in construction, maintenance, operations, and technical support – areas that demand advanced training and precise skills.
Energy Security and Economic Growth
Dr. Kwofie also pointed to the strategic importance of nuclear power for Ghana’s energy security, noting that the country currently relies heavily on thermal power, which accounts for 66% of its energy mix.
“Recently, gas shortages impacted our electricity production, highlighting the need for a more stable, long-term solution like nuclear power,” he explained.
He further argued that investing in nuclear energy would reduce Ghana’s reliance on fossil fuels, strengthen its energy independence, and create thousands of well-paying jobs for skilled technicians.
Technical Schools Ready to Adapt
Welcoming the initiative, CCTI Headmaster, Mr. Kingsford Eshun, praised NPG for including the school in the project, noting that it would help bridge the gap between education and industry requirements.
He acknowledged that while CCTI graduates possess foundational skills, many still require additional training to meet industry standards.
“They want us to prepare the students to come out with some standard for direct employment, and we are fully prepared to do that,” Mr. Eshun said, adding that the institute recently partnered with the Design Technology Institute to train 250 students in precision quality.
The collaboration with NPG is expected to provide a more structured path for students to transition directly into high-demand roles within the nuclear sector, ensuring they are work-ready upon graduation.
As part of the ongoing preparations, NPG has also engaged with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) head office to align curricula with industry needs.
The Nuclear Power Ghana initiative is expected to continue expanding its partnerships with technical institutions nationwide as the country moves closer to establishing its first nuclear power plant.
