The Directorate of Physical Development and Estate Management (DPDEM) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) recently held a two-day workshop for the University's maintenance technicians and facility managers. The event, which took place at the Old Academic Board Chamber, was centered around the theme, "Effective Maintenance of University Property: The Role of Maintenance Technicians and Facility Managers of The University of Cape Coast (UCC)."

The workshop aimed to provide training for maintenance technicians and facility managers, ensuring the proper management of university buildings and properties to prevent wastage and deterioration. During an interview, the Ag. Deputy Director of DPDEM, Mr. Ebenezer Ekow Sackey, highlighted that the initiative was designed to equip technicians with essential maintenance skills. "Well, the programme is basically to keep the staff of DPDEM, particularly the technicians, abreast with current issues on maintenance performance," he stated.

Mr. Sackey further explained that the training's benefits are twofold.

“The individual has been developed for their personal gain and the performance that a person would achieve for the University because we are employed to provide such services," he explained.

According to Mr. Sackey, maintenance goes beyond simple tasks like painting and involves much more that technicians need to learn.

"It's standard in practice normally, they call it continuous professional development. It's training so that though you are practicing from time to time, you also expose yourself to current trends, current issues, and current standards and procedures," he said.

Mr. Hayford R. Wilson, who facilitated in the workshop, gave insightful presentations on "The Definition of Routine Maintenance" and "Scoping of Maintenance Activity." He clarified that building maintenance generally involved regular activities that must be carried out consistently. Mr. Wilson discussed two types of maintenance: Corrective and Preventive.

"Corrective maintenance is to rectify and repair faulty systems and equipment. The response to systems that have broken down. And preventive maintenance is proactive. Proactive maintenance anticipates the problem," he said.

Emphasising the importance of proactive maintenance, Mr. Wilson urged technicians to avoid procrastination and neglecting their duties. He also encouraged trainees to prioritize safety protocols, quality control planning, and proper scheduling to ensure effective maintenance practices.

On Wednesday, 21 May 2025, Mr. Wilson spoke to  facility managers and maintenance technicians on the topic: " Effective Management of University facilities."

Mr. Wilson explaining a point during the workshop

Mr. Wilson took the participants through Preparation of asset registrar, challenges in maintaining asset register and the strategies to overcome challenges in maintaining asset register.

He urged them to take good care of the asset of the university so as to prolong their lifespan.

The participants went on a field trip around the campus to assess university property, identify defects, and explore ways to prevent the loss of university assets.

The workshop was chaired by the Director of Physical Development and Estate Management, Mr. Philip Ntim.

Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC