Hyundai Motor and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have launched ‘Hyundai-KOICA NextGen’ in Ghana, a five-year, KRW5bn (about US$3.7m) technical training programme covering hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) maintenance. The programme will support 405 teachers and students at two new education centres.

A baseline assessment found 80% of Ghana’s automotive institutions lack current curricula, 70% use equipment over 10 years old, and only 12.5% of instructors have EV experience. Employer satisfaction with technical graduates stands below 40%.

The project is the first under Hyundai Motor’s ‘Hyundai Continue’ Creating Shared Value initiative, funded on a 5:5 matching basis with KOICA. Ghana is identified as an emerging automotive hub in West Africa, making workforce development a strategic priority for the country.

Joongsun Ko, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Planning at Hyundai Motor Company, said: “With the launch of this project, Hyundai Motor will continue its technology talent development program to strengthen the competitiveness of the automotive industry. Through an updated curriculum covering the latest developments in hybrid and electric vehicle maintenance, we are equipping Ghanaian youth with future-ready skills and empowering them to play a meaningful role in the continued growth of Ghana’s automotive industry. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact this project will have on thousands of young people and their communities.”

Source: Hyundai