

DUQM: The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), in cooperation with the Irish crane manufacturer Liebherr, organised a training programme for four young Omani engineers who will be part of a technical team operating a new set of cranes due to be installed at the Port of Duqm.
The team, which includes an Omani female engineer, holds diplomas and bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and related technical disciplines.
The training programme, spanning nine months, includes courses at an Irish university covering all the technical and practical skills linked to the handling, operation and maintenance of the crane equipment. Also as part of the programme, the Omani team were given hands-on training at crane manufacturing sites in Irehand. The programme ends during the installation of the newly acquired cranes at Port of Duqm.
Commenting on this training programme, Eng Ahmed Akaak of OPAZ said the initiative is in line with the Authority’s efforts to support the upskilling of young Omanis in various technical fields and build the national competencies of Omani cadres in the efficient operation and management of assets falling within the jurisdiction of the Authority.
Nasra bint Salim al Majrafiyah (pictured), a member of the Omani team, said: “The training programme was an enriching opportunity, as we were able to acquire many technical skills in various fields such as security, safety & programming, in addition to increasing our practical and personal skills in communication, time management, business, organising and arranging priorities, work ethics, problem-solving and crisis management skills at work.”
Fellow trainee Ahmed bin Saeed al Maharbi appreciated the efforts made by both OPAZ and the Irish company to provide this training programme, which enabled the trainees to learn more about the technologies and technical specifications of the Rubber-Tyred Gantry cranes (RTG) and container cranes, their operation mechanisms and remote operation. He pointed out that they will undergo practical training upon the installation of the cranes at the Port of Duqm.
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