Government trains first cohort of simulator-based heavy equipment operators
At the end of the training, each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of the skills acquired during the programme.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has passed out the first cohort of heavy equipment operators trained using simulator technology, marking a significant step towards improving safety, efficiency and professionalism in Uganda’s infrastructure sector.
The three-week pilot training programme was conducted at the Mechanical Engineering Training and Advisory Centre (METRAC) in Luwero and equipped participants with practical simulator-based skills in operating heavy construction machinery.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Eng. Winfred Naluyinda, the Assistant Commissioner for Mechanical Engineering Services Inspection at the Ministry of Works and Transport, urged operators to prioritize safety, professionalism and continuous skills development in their work.
She emphasized the critical role competent equipment operators play in delivering quality infrastructure projects and ensuring workplace safety.
“Road construction equipment operators must embrace safety, professionalism and continuous skills development to enhance efficiency and contribute to the successful implementation of infrastructure projects,” Eng. Naluyinda said.
The training programme focused on simulator-based operation of excavators, bulldozers, motor graders and wheel loaders, allowing trainees to gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment before operating actual equipment.
According to ministry officials, the use of simulators helps reduce training costs, minimizes risks associated with practical field training and enables operators to develop critical technical skills more effectively.
The initiative is expected to improve the competence of heavy equipment operators, reduce accidents on construction sites and enhance productivity in road and infrastructure projects across the country.
At the end of the training, each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of the skills acquired during the programme.
Officials described the pilot programme as a milestone in modernizing technical training within the construction sector and expressed optimism that simulator-based training will be expanded to reach more operators in the future.
The graduation comes at a time when Uganda is undertaking major investments in transport and infrastructure development, increasing the demand for skilled personnel capable of operating modern construction equipment safely and efficiently.
