First Lady of F.D.R.E, World Vision, KIA motors and KOICA marks the start of construction of a new community-run auto mechanic training centre
World Vision Ethiopia funded by World Vision Korea, KIA Motors and KOICA, kicks off ground breaking ceremony for the new community-run auto mechanic training center, on May 27, 2016 at Lideta sub-city, Addis Ababa.
The new community-run auto mechanic training center, with the total cost of USD2.01 million, is due to be completed in the first half of 2017. The center aims reducing the percentage of economically vulnerable population by enhancing market participation of Addis Ababa youth, providing comprehensive business skill and market participation opportunities.
Speaking in the opening remark, National Director of World Vision Ethiopia, Edward Brown says, “This KIA-funded KOICA Green Light project is part of the Ethiopian Government strategy to promote skilled labor through vocation trainings to address jobless youth. With a 5-year budget of over $2M USD (44.1 million Birr) it will initially transform the lives of at least 615 Youth, of which 220 will become Auto Mechanics and 395 will be trained in Ethio-Handicraft. It will have its own governing structure and continue to train young men and women”.
National Director of World Vision Ethiopia Edward Brown, Kia Motors Executive H.E Mr Jin Hang Chung, The First Lady of F.D.R.E H.E. Roman Tesfaye, and other invited guests (From Left to right) while laying the foundation
“The establishment of the new centre is part of Kia’s on going global corporate social responsibility program, the ‘Green Light Project’. And we hope the establishment of the new auto mechanic training centre in Ethiopia will encourage the development of successful, community-operated businesses that can have crucial impact in the country,” says Kia Motors Executive H.E Mr Jin Hang Chung.
The First Lady of F.D.R.E H.E. Roman Tesfaye officially launching the project stressed out that the project has to be very objective in selecting the beneficiaries and need to employ a serious follow up on the progress of the program to achieve the target goals. She further said “Women economic empowerment is not a one-go process and also could not be completed by one actor. It requires a multi-sartorial approach that involves financial sectors, educational institutions, civil societies and the higher political leadership among other”.
When the center opens in 2017, it will employ the local community and take on around 100 young trainees each year. The centers will enable trainee mechanics to work towards national qualifications in their countries.
The new community-run auto mechanic training centre will provide various kinds of vocational trainings equipped with the necessary machineries and vehicle parts. Market opportunity and on job trainings will also be facilitated afterwards.
After five years, the project will have its own governing structure and continue to train youths and women.