Hyundai Dream Center Opening in Kenya
Center Opening
Hyundai Motor has announced the opening of the Hyundai Dream Center in Kenya, marking it as the latest addition to its automotive training and education facilities. This center is the seventh of its kind established by Hyundai, following similar centers set up in Ghana, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Peru.
Opening Ceremony
Hyundai held the inauguration of the "Hyundai Dream" center, located within the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) grounds by the Athi River in Nairobi, on June 24.
Message from the Vice President
On this occasion, Bang Sun-kyung, Vice President and Head of Operations for the Middle East and Africa at Hyundai, congratulated the opening of the center via video message, stating:
"It is expected that the 'Hyundai Dream' center will assist youth in Kenya by providing practical education in automotive maintenance and creating job opportunities through Hyundai Motor’s extensive network. Outstanding students will receive field training at Hyundai's service and dealership networks, alongside new industrial openings and job opportunities after their graduation."
Guests in Attendance
Nearly 40 guests attended the center's opening, including Kenyan government officials, automotive technology specialists, and representatives from the "Hyundai Dream" center. Among the honored guests were:
- Wilson Njahou - Chairman of NITA
- Michael De Silva - General Manager of Salvador Caetano in Kenya
- Patrick Njinga - Deputy Country Director of Plan International in Kenya
- William Mwanza - Director at NITA
Center Objectives
The "Hyundai Dream" center is part of Hyundai Motor’s global initiative aimed at creating shared value for sustainability (CSV), providing vocational training and job opportunities for youth in resource-limited areas worldwide, in collaboration with the non-governmental organization Plan Korea.
Educational Support
Through its programs, the "Hyundai Dream" center will support youth and nurture skilled Kenyan talent in the automotive field. Hyundai has established the new center in Kenya within the NITA electronics and automotive centers, which is a state-run vocational training institute, to help stimulate growth in the local automotive industry.
Future Plans
Hyundai plans to enroll 120 youth, who face resource and service shortages, in vocational training courses and to support their education by providing a conducive learning environment for three years, which will include:
- Supplementary teaching materials
- Provision of equipment
- Scholarships for outstanding students
The company also aims for a minimum of 30% female enrollment in the center to encourage more girls to pursue careers in the automotive field.
Student Testimonials
Owenja Jennifer, a student enrolled at the "Hyundai Dream" center in Kenya, commented:
"I would like to thank Hyundai for providing this valuable opportunity to learn about the latest automotive equipment. I hope this project continues for many years and is introduced in other parts of the country to support more youth who may have modest circumstances that hinder them from achieving their hopes and dreams."
Sustainability and Future Opportunities
Following the opening of the seventh training center in Kenya, Hyundai will continue its projects in communities that need support worldwide, delivering social value through education and economic value by equipping the workforce and creating job opportunities.
