GPOC Holds Capacity Building Workshop for Oil and  Gas  Stakeholders

By Awan Achiek

The Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) hosted a four-day workshop on Wednesday, aimed at enhancing the capacity of key stakeholders involved in oil and gas operations from oil-producing regions.

The workshop gathered over 60 participants from the Ruweng Administrative Area and Unity State, including ministers, MPs, youth leaders, student representatives, women representatives, chiefs, and community leaders.

Speaking During the opening workshop in Juba, Beny Ngor Chol, Vice President of GPOC, said that the workshop provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange views and ideas on how to collaborate effectively in utilizing limited resources for development.

“In the health sector, we recognize that some of the services we have delivered require us to come together and reason collectively to find better ways to utilize the medical assistance we provide,” Ngor said.

He noted that the forum would address various issues related to health, water, agriculture, and education.

“We see this as an opportunity to unite and reason together to determine how to allocate our water services and activities in our respective states and rural administrative areas.”

Simon Chol Martin, Acting Director General for Planning, Training, and Research at the Ministry of Petroleum, emphasized that the workshop aimed to discuss the challenges facing communities in oil-producing areas and explore future perspectives.

“The oil industry is sensitive. We aim to help people live well, changing political and societal values so that communities can thrive and plan effectively,” Chol remarked.

Meanwhile, Philip Mamun Chap, Manager of Community Development and Corporate Affairs (CD/CA) at GPOC, said  that the ideas generated during the workshop would serve as a roadmap for the community development project.

“Your contributions can shape the roadmap for the CD project and plan. This will ensure that the Ministry of Petroleum acknowledges community input and involvement,” Mamun explained.

“We will review ongoing health projects and need your feedback to enhance our initiatives. This will guide our plans for 2027.”

Chiengchuuol Gattot Chiok, Chairperson of the Mayom Students’ Association at the university and higher institutes, expressed the expectation that the company would fulfill its promise to cover students’ tuition fees.

“We face numerous challenges, particularly regarding tuition payments. Some students have received funding while others have not, which is impacting them due to policy issues,” Gattot said.

“We are here to discuss the policy and ensure we develop a favorable approach that benefits all students in their respective communities.”

Nyanchok Tou Mijok, Secretary General of the Panaruu Students Association in universities and higher institutes, added, “We require accommodation, such as hostels, and if there are insurance benefits for students, it would greatly enhance our situation.”