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 as a common platform for auto mechanics nationwide to share ideas and build a network to strengthen their operations. The competition is being organized by Shell Ghana in collaboration with the Ghana National Association of Garages (GNAG), a non- governmental organization 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 seeks to recognize the immense contributions by auto mechanics towards the socio-economic development of the nation. He added that as part of the company's social responsibilities, various training programmes have been organized 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 organized for candidates. "Participants will have formal training in topics such as quality maintenance practices, lubricants, functions of engines, tyres and auto air conditioning," he noted. With regards to the final stage, he said participants would be required to diagnose and repair vehicles within a specified period. According to him, 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 mechanics during the year. He, however, added the second and third runners-up would also receive capacity building training and gifts. National Chairman of GNAG, Mr Simon C. K. Acquah, said, the competition would help auto mechanics to adopt modern trends of fixing vehicles, thereby, reducing road accident. Source: GNA