Hyundai Launches KOICA NextGen Project to Enhance Automotive Skills in Ghana

Business News of Monday, 7 September 2026 Source: Webbers Choice 2026-09-07 « Prev Next » Comments (0) Listen to Article Ghana's automotive sector will receive a boost from a new initiative. This five-year project aims to enhance skills among young people. It also seeks to improve technical training in the industry. Hyundai Motor Company, KOICA, and Plan International launched the Hyundai KOICA NextGen Project. The initiative will provide training in electric vehicles and other emerging technologies. The launch took place in Accra on September 3 and will run until 2030. This project is part of Hyundai's global Creating Shared Value initiative. It is implemented under KOICA's Inclusive Business Solution programme, alongside Plan International Korea and Ghana. Dongwan Woo, Country Director of KOICA Ghana Office, spoke at the launch. He noted that advancements in the automotive industry require new skills and equipment. 'Electric vehicles, hybrid systems, and digital diagnostics require new equipment,' he stated. Woo mentioned that 405 individuals will benefit directly from the project. Additionally, around 20,000 TVET students and their families are expected to gain indirect benefits. He emphasized a focus on women and out-of-school youth to ensure inclusivity as the sector evolves. Joongsun Ko, Senior Vice-President at Hyundai Motor Company, highlighted the initiative's importance for developing technical talent in Ghana's automotive industry. He stated that it would equip young people with relevant skills reflecting current automotive technology trends. Ko explained that an updated curriculum would cover hybrid and electric vehicle maintenance. This aims to prepare Ghanaian youth for future roles in the automotive sector. Frederick Tei-Nobi, Acting Country Director of Plan International Ghana, expressed optimism about creating opportunities for young people through this project. He emphasized that youth need practical experience and connections to succeed. Tei-Nobi also pointed out the necessity for increased female participation in the automotive field. 'This project can change perceptions about gender roles in this industry,' he said. Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu welcomed the initiative warmly. He noted it would equip young Ghanaians with essential technical skills for economic development. Iddrisu stressed investing in youth as crucial for Ghana's future prosperity. He reaffirmed his Ministry's commitment to supporting curriculum validation aligned with industry needs. 'The future of Ghana's economy lies in the hands of the youth,' he remarked. The Hyundai-KOICA NextGen Project combines various strengths: KOICA's support, Ghana's leadership in TVET, Plan International's expertise in empowerment, and Hyundai's technological knowledge. Implementation will involve collaboration with several entities including the Ministry of Education and local technical institutions like Accra Technical Institute and Ho Technical University. Comments: This article has no comments yet, be the first to comment