KUMASI, Ghana — The Akenten Appiah-Menka University for Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), in collaboration with DRIVERIDE NETWORK, has initiated a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program for commercial and private drivers in Ghana. This initiative aims to enhance road safety by strengthening the link between the university, industry players, and the community.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dean of the Faculty of Technical Education at AAMUSTED, the university recognizes the importance of structured training and entrepreneurial development for professional drivers in the country. This initiative is expected to contribute to the provision of safe and customer-centric transport services in Ghana.
The CPD training for drivers is part of AAMUSTED’s mandate, established by Act 1026 of the Parliament of Ghana and endorsed by the President in 2020. The university focuses on technical and vocational education and entrepreneurial development. Prof. Danso emphasized that the university’s curricula are designed to be learner-centered and problem-based, specifically tailored for technical and vocational education and training.
The training modules include the Driver Skills Development Program (DSDP), Continuing Education on Commercial Drivers (CECD), and Continuing Education of Private Drivers (CEPD), among others. Prof. Danso highlighted the recent road accidents leading to loss of lives as a compelling reason for this initiative, calling for action from various stakeholders to improve road safety.
AAMUSTED has obtained the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) Driving School Operating License to train drivers. The university plans to offer a full certificated program in Driver Science Skills Development for degrees, with diplomas focusing on similar training. Additionally, certificate training programs will cover areas like Driver Science Skills Development, Vulcanizing Proficiency, Novice Trainers, and Licensing for both Commercial Professional Driver and Private Professional Driver Training.
Mr. Augustus Kwaw Brew, the Registrar, encouraged drivers to engage seriously with the training to enhance their driving skills and stay updated with the latest trends in driving. He expressed gratitude to the facilitators and organizers for implementing the Drive Skills Development Programme (DSDP) and hoped for its sustained success.
Nineteen participants attended the first training session, covering topics such as driver risk appreciation, driving hazards perception and management, emotional intelligence in driving, essential vehicle preventive maintenance, driving psychology, and professional responsibilities in driver and vehicle safety, complemented by practical sessions. All participants received Certificates of Participation at the end of the first session.
The participants expressed their appreciation for the training, deeming it a timely initiative in the context of increasing road indiscipline.