Accra, (Greater Accra) 31 Oct.,

Sixteen companies were today given awards for their innovative industrial capabilities in the private sector. The awards scheme instituted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is aimed at rewarding excellence in the industrial sector and to promote high standards in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. It was organised by the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Association of Ghana Industries and UNIDO. The first three in each category - small-scale, medium-scale and large-scale - earned an automatic qualification to participate in a global fair for industrial innovations slated for Mauritius next month. Juaben Oil Mills was adjudged the best enterprise in the small scale sector, followed by Anuanom Industrial Projects, makers of Klin washing detergents. In the medium-scale sector Scanstyle was number one. Next was Abro Bomobado Timber and Sawmills Limited and Domod Company Limited was third. Tema Steel Works was adjudged the best in the Large Scale Sector followed by Pioneer Food Cannery and Aluworks Company Limited. Mr. Lee Ocran deputy minister of Environment, Science and Technology said all enterprises must be innovative in the application of technology. ''This involves the application of those managerial techniques which are capable of ensuring that the technological factor is properly utilized to achieve the goals of the enterprise''. He said it was sad that many enterprises have been concentrating on financial, marketing and human resources, leaving out a vital part such as technological planning. ''This has resulted in our inability to cope with the technological advancement which has become the order of the day''. The deputy minister congratulated UNIDO for their insight adding that government fully supports the move. Mr. Ocran also praised Ghanaian enterprises for their ability to withstand the adverse effects of the ERP. ''The reform policies, through monetary and fiscal discipline, have stimulated growth, removed expensive administrative controls and largely eased the impediments...'' Mr. Ocran suggested that the awards system be made an annual affair to create the spirit of competition among enterprises. Mr. Nathaniel T. Apotsi, deputy Chief Executive of GIPC and National Coordinator of the awards scheme, said the contest started with 87 companies which were screened and pruned to 16 through a process of three sets of questionnaires and interviews. He said the criteria was the rate of turnover, geographical distribution of sales and sales area, sense of innovation, impact of innovation on product and the rate of market share. Award winners received crystal plaques and certificates.