Powering futures: How Genser Energy is fueling education and opportunity in Ghana

A Classroom Beyond Walls

Genser Energy has launched an industrial training program. It has provided over 400 students with on-site experiences. These students come from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), and Takoradi Technical University (TTU). They visit key operational hubs like GP Damang, GP Wassa, and the Anwomaso Branch and Metering Station near Kumasi.

Daniel Ayi, Vice President of Operations at Genser Energy, said, “We aim to provide practical skills that complement academic knowledge.” This approach is already changing lives.

Emmanuel Mensah is a final-year mechanical engineering student at UMaT. He found his visit to Genser’s ABMS facility transformative. “Before visiting Genser, I only understood energy systems in theory,” he said. “Seeing the turbines up close gave me a new perspective.”

Akua Nkrumah, an electrical engineering student at TTU, felt similarly inspired. She stated, “Genser Energy made me feel there’s a place for women in this industry.” Witnessing female engineers thrive motivates her to push harder.

Prioritizing Health, Safety, and Environment Training

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) training is integral to these visits. Every student undergoes comprehensive HSE training before entering the sites. This ensures they understand safety protocols that protect personnel and the environment.

“Safety is not just a policy; it’s part of our culture,” emphasized Ayi. He added that rigorous training extends to visitors as well. Everyone who steps onto their sites must know how to operate safely.

Stephen Davor, HSE Superintendent at Genser Energy, stated: “Our goal is to make safety second nature.” HSE awareness is essential for everyone involved in operations.

Investing in Tools and Dreams

Genser's contributions extend beyond experiential learning. In 2023, they donated a gas turbine package worth $1.2 million to TTU. This equipment reshapes the school’s engineering curriculum significantly.

Dr. Kwasi Boateng from TTU noted that students now work with machinery used globally. For Annie Andoh, a final-year Electrical/Electronics engineering student, this turbine represents a dream realized: “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Learning from the Experts

Genser also offers classroom engagements led by industry professionals. Recently, over 150 students attended a seminar on oil and gas terminal operations at TTU.

Carlos Estaban Laya Marquez led the session as Senior Naval Engineer at Genser Energy. He expressed gratitude for teaching in Ghana: “It’s an honor to give back.”

Afterward, students visited Genser’s Takoradi Natural Gas Liquids Terminal project site under construction. The facility will enhance Ghana's energy infrastructure by providing critical storage solutions for natural gas liquids.

Global Partnerships and Cross-Cultural Impact

While rooted in Ghana, Genser's mission has global reach. They recently collaborated with Georgetown University on sustainable energy projects.

Students from Georgetown toured Genser's power plants during their weeklong trip in 2024. Courtney Mawet remarked on the incredible educational experience they had learning about gas and energy directly from experts.

Abigail Smith added that seeing Genser sites complemented their coursework on clean energy transition.

These joint projects are just one example of collaboration efforts by Genser Energy with institutions like Howard University as well.

Developing Talent from Within

Alongside external partnerships, Genser prioritizes internal capacity building too. They collaborate with the University of Florida for executive education programs for employees.

These initiatives ensure that their workforce remains competitive in the global energy industry while staying informed about research innovations.

“This dual approach ensures we stay agile,” said Ayi about investing in both new talent and existing employees’ development.

A Long-Term Vision Rooted in Innovation

Genser’s investment reflects its belief that Ghana's future lies within its youth potential. By exposing young people early to industrial operations, they contribute to social mobility and economic resilience.

“Education is at the core of our mission,” Ayi stated about nurturing future leaders for Ghana's energy transition.

The journey continues as Genser seeks innovative ways to keep its programs relevant amid global changes. With each seminar or hands-on training opportunity offered by them—Ghana's future grows brighter.