Analysis of skills and training needs of metalwork engineering enterprises in Ghana

This paper analysed skills and training needs of metalwork engineering enterprises in Ghana. Using primary data from a cross-sectional survey, empirical analysis was carried out. The data was developed into a database on metalwork engineering enterprises in Kumasi of Ghana. Five hundred metalwork engineering enterprises were analysed for trends and proportions to provide knowledge and understanding. To determine training priorities, skills gap analysis was used. Pareto chart was also used to analyse priority areas for training, tools for training, best time and duration.

The study results showed that although the metalwork engineering enterprises possessed diverse skills, they were limited in knowledge-based skills and training, which adversely impacted on productivity and competitiveness. It was revealed that about 86 per cent of the respondents acquired their existing skills through apprenticeship training from master craftsmen over an average period of 4.9 years. From the results, the widest gap in skills was in [information and communications technology] ICT and Computer Aided Design/Manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Basic skills upgrading is needed in welding and fabrication, agricultural and agro processing equipment manufacture, technical drawing and metalwork fabrication. The results suggested that priority training methods and tools should focus on hands-on and use of basic engineering tools. The majority of metalwork engineering enterprises prefer training duration of one to three months and late afternoon (4-7 pm) since the mornings are peak periods for business and income generation. The need for skills upgrading, awareness creation in design processes, well-timed training etc., are recommended.

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