IOM Ghana trains over 100 immigration officers in Upper East, Upper West regions on use of MIDAS

The International Organisation for Migration, IOM, Ghana has trained over 100 immigration officers in the Upper East and Upper West regions on use of MIDAS.

MIDAS automatically captures traveller’s biographic and biometric data using document readers, webcams, and fingerprint readers. This automation of data collection allows for faster and more accurate capture of information. MIDAS is completely customizable and can be tailored to the specific requirements of governments, be it the integration with Advance Passenger Information (API) systems, compatibility with an e-Visa solution, or the option to print visa vignettes and temporary travel cards.

“I didn’t know there was a system to make our work easy like this. During the workshop, we received hands-on training from IOM Ghana on how to navigate the MIDAS, and I must say, I was impressed, especially the interoperable ability and the possibility to check travellers against Interpol list is amazing! The trainer emphasized the importance of accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) when using MIDAS,” Priscilla mentioned.

As part of the MIDAS roll-out in Ghana, a customised training – tailored to the needs of the respective administrators, end users (front-line immigration officers) and IT focal points at the various crossing points was delivered. IOM Ghana has so far trained over 100 immigration officers in the Upper East and Upper West regions of Ghana, specifically in Hamile, Kulungugu, Mognori, Namoo, and Pulmakom all located on the border with Burkina Faso.

Priscilla shared how the training has been helpful and how she is going to utilize the knowledge gained: “I have been using MIDAS for about a month now after we received the training, and it has made it easier to keep track of statistics, to streamline data collection and to enhance operational efficiency at this border checkpoint. We can leverage on this improved management of data to make informed decisions. I believe it can also help GIS’ HQ in advocacy and inform policies based on the data we collect.” She added: “The knowledge I have acquired now, will help improve my work on the field even in my next posting and I might even train others and share my knowledge.”

The workshop was funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the Government of the United States of America with the aim to enhance the capacity of GIS officers in managing migration data effectively and to make Ghana’s borders safer overall.