Accra, Oct. 27, GNA - The Management of Shell Ghana, has instituted an award scheme to build the capacity of auto mechanics to facilitate the reduction of motor accidents.

The scheme, which will start this year on competitive basis, will serve a common platform for auto mechanics nationwide to share ideas and build a network to strengthen their operations. The competition is been organised by Shell Ghana in collaboration with the Ghana National Association of Garages (GNAG), a non- governmental organisation and the Mechanical Department of Accra Polytechnic. Speaking at the maiden awards ceremony on Tuesday in Accra, Mr. Samson Annoh-Quarshie, Business-to-Business Manager of Shell Ghana and Togo said the competition sought to recognise the immense contributions by auto mechanics towards the socio-economic development of the nation. He said as part of the company's social responsibilities, various training programmes had been organised for about 5,000 mechanics throughout the country.

"The competition is open to all auto mechanics and the criteria for the first round selection of 150 candidates will be based on achievements and qualification, he said.

Mr. Annoh-Quashie said as part of the second round of the competition, a formal training session and tests would be organised for candidates. "Participants will have formal training in topics such as quality maintenance practices, lubricants, functions of engines, tyres and auto air conditioning."

With regards to the final stage, he said participants would be required to diagnose and repair vehicles within a specified period. He said the fastest mechanic who fixes a vehicle would be crowned the best shell mechanic of the year. Mr. Annoh-Quashie said as part of the package to be sponsored by shell the winner would visit an automobile plant in South Africa and would be the ambassador for mechanic during the year. He said the second and third runners -up would also receive capacity training and gifts.

Mr. Simon C. K. Acquah, National Chairman, GNAG said, the competition would help auto mechanics to adopt modern trends of fixing vehicles and thereby reduce road accident. 27 Oct. 09