Vivo Energy Ghana Teams Up with Applied Technology Institute to Train Next‑Generation Automotive Specialists
On a recent occasion at Vivo Energy Ghana’s headquarters in Accra, Mr. Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, and Eng. Emmanuel Kotey Ashie, Director of the Applied Technology Institute (ATI), exchanged pleasantries after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement formalises a joint technical‑training initiative under Vivo Energy’s Mechanic Advocacy programme, aimed at preparing young mechanics for the evolving automotive and lubricants sectors.
Why the Partnership Matters
Ghana’s automotive industry is expanding, yet many young technicians working in the informal sector lack access to structured, industry‑aligned training. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, youth unemployment remains a significant socio‑economic challenge, limiting opportunities for skilled employment. By combining classroom instruction with hands‑on practice, the Vivo Energy‑ATI collaboration seeks to:
- Equip participants with certified technical competencies in vehicle maintenance and lubricant handling.
- Strengthen safety awareness—a critical need as modern vehicles incorporate increasingly complex electronic systems.
- Improve employability and encourage entrepreneurship among graduates.
Kerim Kermen, Vice President of Central Lubricants and Commercial for Vivo Energy Group, noted that the initiative aligns with both national development priorities and the company’s broader strategy to foster sustainable growth in Africa’s energy market.
Structure of the Training Programme
The MoU outlines a blended learning model that includes:
- Interactive classroom sessions covering fundamentals of automotive engineering, diagnostic techniques, and lubricant science.
- Practical workshops in ATI’s training labs and at selected Vivo Energy service stations, where trainees work on live vehicles under expert supervision.
- Mentorship components featuring experienced Vivo Energy technicians and ATI instructors.
- Assessment pathways leading to nationally recognised certification.
Former ATI students who have already transitioned into roles at Vivo Energy Ghana’s retail and lubricants divisions shared testimonials during the ceremony. They highlighted how the earlier exposure to industry‑standard tools and safety protocols accelerated their professional development and opened pathways to supervisory positions.
Broader Impact on the Community
Beyond immediate job placement, the programme is designed to nurture entrepreneurial spirit. Graduates receive guidance on establishing independent automotive repair shops, operating lubricant service centres, or becoming authorised distributors of Shell products. This approach supports job creation, stimulates local economic activity, and contributes to community development in Accra and surrounding regions.
Vivo Energy Ghana’s vision—to become Africa’s leading and most respected energy company—includes a strong focus on youth empowerment. By investing in skills development, the company aims to transform lives, promote professionalism, and uphold a culture of safety and technical excellence across the automotive value chain.
Looking Forward
Both Vivo Energy Ghana and the Applied Technology Institute plan to monitor the programme’s outcomes through regular feedback loops, graduate tracking, and industry‑partner consultations. Adjustments will be made based on emerging technological trends, ensuring that the training remains relevant and responsive to market needs.
Through this partnership, stakeholders hope to set a benchmark for public‑private collaboration in technical education, demonstrating how targeted investment in skills can drive inclusive growth and strengthen Ghana’s position within the regional automotive landscape.
