South Korea and Egypt on Wednesday signed a $10m grant agreement to enhance vocational training in electric vehicle (EV) and compressed natural gas (CNG) technologies, a project that coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The agreement for the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) grant project, “Upgrading Green Automotive Maintenance Technology for Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Egypt,” was signed by Korean Ambassador Kim Yong-Hyon and Egyptian Minister of Planning, Rania Al-Mashat.
The project, which will be implemented in collaboration with the Productivity and Vocational Training Department (PVTD), aims to significantly enhance vocational training in the automotive sector. It will also upgrade existing training materials for gasoline cars, increase employment among VTC graduates, and establish a robust system of collaboration between the training centres and industry partners. A focus on training trainers is also included to ensure sustainable skill development.
“This initiative will empower our youth and support a sustainable future in the automotive sector,” said South Korea Ambassador Kim. “By focusing on cutting-edge technologies like Electric Vehicles and Compressed Natural Gas engine maintenance, we are preparing our young people for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, Kamel El-Wazir, who was present at the signing, expressed his gratitude to the Korean government for its assistance in preparing a trained and qualified technical workforce in Egypt. He stressed the necessity for the project to provide simulation systems for practical training and equipment for repairing EV batteries.
Minister Al-Mashat said the project aligns with the state’s broader vision and the national economic development narrative, which aims to transition the economy towards higher-productivity sectors. “This model is intended to help localise industry, increase direct foreign investment, and enhance the efficiency and flexibility of the labour market,” she said.
This project is a continuation of four previous KOICA projects implemented between 1993 and 2013 to support curriculum development and equipment at four vocational training centres in Egypt. KOICA is a Korean government agency dedicated to implementing grant aid programmes to combat poverty and support sustainable socio-economic growth in developing countries.
