EACOP Flags Off New Cohort of International Graduate Trainees

The East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) has flagged off three additional students for its International Graduate Training Program, an initiative designed to empower young Ugandan talent with essential skills and industry experience. EACOP’s Deputy Managing Director, John Bosco Habumugisha, officially sent off the trainees in a ceremony that was also attended by HR and Corporate Affairs Director, Eileen Baguma. As part of this group, two interns are headed to Italy and one to Tanzania, where they will engage in hands-on learning and gain exposure to best practices within the global oil and gas industry.

The graduate training program is a key component of EACOP’s Local Content strategy, which is dedicated to Uganda’s socio-economic growth through the development of a skilled local workforce. Through a blend of mentorship, on-the-job training, and interaction with top industry professionals, EACOP’s trainees gain practical knowledge and advanced skills in fields relevant to the EACOP project. By working directly with tier-one contractors and suppliers, these young engineers are able to expand their expertise, ensuring they are well-prepared to make a positive impact in the energy sector.

The program itself is structured to offer approximately 40 international internship opportunities, each tailored to the scope of work and needs of the partnering entities. Trainees are placed in a range of departments, including land and social affairs, surveying, finance, and engineering, where they gain an in-depth understanding of the project’s operations and challenges. The program is also highly flexible, offering internships of varying lengths, from as short as five days to as long as six months, to accommodate each participant’s goals and the requirements of the hosting partner.

Through initiatives in both Uganda and Tanzania, EACOP’s graduate training program reflects a commitment to cultivating a sustainable, skilled workforce across East Africa. By investing in these young professionals, EACOP not only supports individual career growth but also contributes to the energy sector’s long-term development and regional progress.