Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson
The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has expressed deep concern about the near-collapse of Ghana’s railway sector, highlighting its adverse effects on the local economy of Sekondi-Takoradi.
He noted that the poor performance of the sector has significantly disrupted economic activities, affecting various affiliated industries and businesses within the Western Region.
According to him, the continuous decline of the railway sector over the years has negatively impacted ancillary and value-chain activities that depend on rail transport.
He emphasised that reviving the sector would stimulate economic growth, create more jobs, and enhance trade in the region.
“The railway sector is almost dead,” he lamented. However, he expressed optimism that the Mahama government would work diligently with relevant stakeholders to restore it.
Joseph Nelson underscored the crucial role of the railway sector in boosting transportation and supporting economic growth.
“I pray that the railway redevelopment project will take off soon,” he said.
The minister stressed that the deterioration of the railway sector has contributed to the collapse of various industries, further exacerbating economic hardship in the region.
During his familiarization tour of the School of Railway and Infrastructure Development at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Essikado-Ketan, Joseph Nelson acknowledged the institution’s vital role in shaping high-quality human resources for the railway and technology sectors.
“This university plays a crucial role in opening up the local economy for development, and your work is highly commendable,” he stated.
He assured the school of his unwavering commitment to supporting its expansion requests and commended management for sustaining the academic community despite challenges.
“Thank you for the great work done so far,” he said.
He further emphasized that his visit aimed to gather first-hand information about the university’s operations, enabling the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) to be better informed about its current state and challenges.
“By understanding your challenges, we can take proactive steps to find solutions and enhance the university’s operations,” he added.
Joseph Nelson reiterated his personal commitment to supporting initiatives that foster technological advancements and industrial growth.
“Training and equipping students with relevant skills to embrace technology as a solution to industrial challenges will ultimately bring the progress we all envision,” he noted.
He pledged to work closely with the university to address its challenges, ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to enhance its capacity.
In recognition of the programs and projects being implemented to improve the university’s performance, he urged management to partner with the government to expand training opportunities for Ghana’s youth and equip them with professional skills for the job market.
“You have me as your number one supporter. My doors are always open. This is a critical service to the Western Region, and it is important to collaborate with stakeholders to address these challenges,” he assured.
The railway campus in Sekondi aspires to become a university college offering specialized courses to support the railway sector’s transformation.
Professor Yakubu Issaka, Dean of the School of Railway and Infrastructure Development at UMaT, revealed that the university plans to produce concrete sleepers for Ghana’s railway sector.
Additionally, the university aims to train a high-caliber workforce to serve the railway and transportation industries.
He disclosed that a comprehensive proposal is currently being prepared and will soon be presented to the minister for consideration.
Furthermore, he appealed to the government to establish state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation workshops at the university to enhance teaching and learning.