Graduation Ceremony for Trained Artisans in Lagos
Lafarge, RCLI, Empowerment Training

By Daniels Ekugo

In line with its strategic objective to continue to develop skills in the building and construction industry, Lafarge Africa Plc in partnership with the Rotary club of Lagos Island has completed the training of the first batch of 17 artisans in Lagos. The artisans were trained in cement application and construction. The 5 day training was quite intensive, imparting theory and practical skills in masonry and concrete works. There was a strong emphasis on Health & Safety in construction.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at Lafarge Africa Plc’s Ready Mix plant at the Lagos Bar Beach Director of Marketing Mr. Vipul Agrawal said Lafarge Africa Plc has an extensive knowledge transfer program as part of its efforts to promote safe sustainable quality construction in Nigeria.

Mr. Agrawal explained that a lot of artisans employed in the construction industry lacked the requisite training, which in turn adversely affects the quality of buildings being constructed. “Lafarge Africa Plc feels a sense of duty to help bridge this knowledge gap by providing relevant training wherever possible. As a key stakeholder in the built environment and leading supplier of building materials, we see it critical to our business to ensure artisans construct properly,” said Mr. Agrawal

On his part the Charter President of the Rotary Club of Lagos Island, Vinod Garg said Rotary was proud to partner with Lafarge Africa Plc in delivery value to a crucial segment of our society that is often ignored. He said the acquisition of building skills will make the artisans more employable. Mr. Garg said Rotary Club will leverage on its network for the possible employment of the artisans.

The technical services manager of Lafarge Africa Plc., Engr. Bukola Adebisi who trained the artisans said they all showed a lot of promise during the training programme. Most of the graduating trainees including Mr Godspower Okporotu and Mr. Okpu Philipson said beyond the technical training received, they now appreciate the importance of maintaining adequate safety standards in the course of any building construction work.