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 noted that significant economic losses and property damage were often caused by poor electrical installations, largely due to unqualified electricians and substandard materials.
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 under the theme “Enhancing Electrical Safety and Compliance Through Technology: The Installation Completion Certificate Application (ICAP),” underscored the government’s commitment to safety and technological innovation in the electrical installation industry.
The Deputy Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to improving safety standards and fostering technological advancements within the industry.
“Over the years, Ghanaians have witnessed numerous safety hazards, property damage, and economic losses due to poor electrical installations, often resulting from the work of unqualified electricians and the use of substandard electrical materials,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for more qualified, properly trained, and certified electricians who adhere to safety protocols and comply with industry best practices.
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 conduct periodic public education and awareness campaigns on energy efficiency and the use of quality electrical cables and appliances, particularly in markets and informal settlements.
“These days, we are witnessing an increasing number of fires in our market spaces. In most cases, these incidents are attributed to poor electrical wiring, which is something we must all take seriously,” he remarked.
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 maintain engagement with the graduates and monitor their performance regularly.
“This graduation ceremony should not mark the end of the relationship between the Energy Commission and the graduates. I, therefore, urge the Energy Commission to engage with the graduates and track their progress regularly.
“The Commission should also develop a continuous professional development programme and a robust feedback mechanism for the graduates,” he added.
He called on the newly certified electricians to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and diligence, and to refrain from using inferior and substandard electrical materials in their work.
Eunice Biritwum, Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, underscored the pivotal role of technology in advancing electrical safety.
She highlighted how digital tools were revolutionising the industry, enabling faster inspections, streamlined compliance, and ultimately, safer electrical installations.
She encouraged the graduates to embrace these innovations, stressing that technology was not merely a convenience but a crucial component in safeguarding communities and shaping the future of electrical work.
During the event, graduates received certificates, and prizes were awarded to outstanding candidates.
Ansah Abraham Gyekye was adjudged the overall best candidate and the Best Commercial Candidate, while Miss Martins Alexandria Ahsley was named the Best Female Candidate.