Thirty new crane operators will be trained under a government-funded programme aimed at addressing an urgent shortage of skilled equipment operators in the port and construction sectors.
The initiative was announced Friday by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant during the post-Cabinet media briefing.
Merchant said Cabinet has agreed to finance the training programme in partnership with a local crane operator, who will conduct instruction for all 30 participants.
The decision follows concerns raised within government about the need for more certified operators to service the port and meet growing national demand.
According to the briefing, the shortage of crane operators affects both port logistics and private-sector construction activity, with increased pressure expected ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
The government views the programme as essential for strengthening operational readiness as preparations intensify for hosting the high-level international event.
Merchant noted that the Cabinet considered the training opportunity to be significant for young people seeking technical careers, offering a pathway into a field that is increasingly important to economic activity and national infrastructure development.
The crane-operator training forms part of a broader set of decisions outlined at the briefing, which also included updates on health-sector expansion, agricultural partnerships, sports development, and diplomatic appointments.
