By Sulaiman Kauki
WAKISO, Uganda — Twenty Ugandans have successfully completed an intensive Fibre Optics Technician training programme aimed at strengthening local expertise for Uganda’s expanding energy, telecommunications and infrastructure sectors.
The five-day course was delivered through a collaboration between SINOPEC Uganda and Solid Rock Group, bringing together participants from Hoima, Buliisa, Pakwach, Nwoya, Masindi, Kampala, Mukono and Masaka. While many trainees were drawn from the oil-rich regions, the programme also attracted candidates from other parts of the country, reflecting growing national demand for specialised fibre optic skills.
Participants underwent both theoretical lessons and practical training covering fibre optic installation, fusion splicing, network testing, fault diagnosis and system maintenance. They are also preparing to undertake the internationally recognised Certified Fiber Optics Technician (CFOT) certification.
The initiative is aligned with Uganda’s National Content policy, which seeks to increase local participation in major industrial projects by equipping Ugandans with globally competitive technical skills, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
Rosette Komugisha, National Content Lead at TotalEnergies EP Uganda, said industry players and contractors are committed to building local capacity through targeted skills development programmes.
She noted that while Uganda’s oil and gas projects require highly specialised expertise, initiatives such as this help bridge the skills gap and improve employability for Ugandans.
Komugisha added that practical exposure on project sites remains essential for trainees to fully apply their classroom knowledge and contribute effectively to ongoing national developments.
SINOPEC Uganda Public Relations and National Content Supervisor Solomon Hans Ruyonga said the strong turnout for the programme reflects the high demand among Ugandans for advanced technical training.
He said investing in skills development not only strengthens the national workforce but also ensures long-term participation of Ugandans in large-scale infrastructure and energy projects.
Certified Fiber Optic Trainer Stephen Kichinda, accredited by the Fiber Optic Association (FOA), praised the trainees for their discipline and progress throughout the programme.
He said the participants had acquired essential competencies in fibre optic systems, including installation, testing, troubleshooting and maintenance, adding that such skills are highly transferable across telecommunications, infrastructure and energy industries.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Oketch Philemon said the programme had significantly improved their understanding of fibre optic technology.
He noted that many participants began the training with limited knowledge but left with practical skills and increased confidence to contribute to Uganda’s growing industrial and infrastructure sectors.
Ronald Kavulu, Chief Operating Officer of Solid Rock Uganda, said the partnership demonstrates the value of collaboration between industry players and training institutions in building a skilled workforce.
He added that the programme equips Ugandans with internationally relevant competencies that enhance job prospects while supporting national development goals.
The training was conducted in line with standards set by the Fiber Optic Association (FOA), ensuring global recognition of the certification process.
SINOPEC Uganda, the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for the Tilenga EPSCC Project, said it remains committed to supporting Uganda’s oil and gas sector through engineering services, national content development and workforce training.
Solid Rock Group, an international consultancy firm, said it continues to focus on professional development, leadership training and certification programmes designed to strengthen institutional capacity and promote sustainable economic growth.