Management of the Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with actors in Ghana’s automobile industry.
The technical university and the Ghana National Association of Garages have agreed to establish a solid collaboration to combine knowledge and expertise to develop the country’s automobile business.
The joint partnership was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Adako Jachie campus of the academic institution last Wednesday.
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Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Kumasi Technical University, Prof. Gabriel Dwomoh welcoming partners to the signing ceremony described the partnership as a ‘’win win’ kind of alliance for both parties.
The Pro-Vice Chancellor of the university pointed out that the Ghanaian automobile industry is ranked as the 5th most attractive in the Sub-Saharan Africa.
He said the Ghanaian automobile market value was estimated at 4.6 billion dollars in 2021 and expected to grow to 10.64 billion by 2027.
Prof. Dwomoh underscored the need to support the industry dominated by informal sector mechanics and artisans with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them catch up with the ever-changing technological advancement.
He estimates that Ghana imports over 100,000 vehicles annually with more than 500-million-dollar worth of spare parts.
According to the Pro-Vice, these imported vehicle parts importation over the past years put enormous pressure on the Ghanaian cedi, stressing the need for the country’s academia to combined efforts with industry stakeholders to manufacture some of these parts within.
He mentioned sourcing for funding for members of the garages association as among key objectives of the partnership.
The professor indicated that the collaboration will put faculty members of the Kumasi Technical University and members of the garages association in a better position to advice the government on joint industry vehicle maintenance research.
He further noted the partnership will offer students and staff of the university the opportunity to gain industry experience from members of the garages.
“Ladies and gentlemen, most of the objectives of the Ghana National Association of Garages can be achieved through this collaboration.
This partnership will offer our students and staff the opportunity to gain industry experience through internship.
Management of the Kumasi Technical University therefore see the partnership as a win-win kind of situation for both parties,” he stressed.
Prof. Gabriel Dwomoh on this note advised parties to be committed to programmes and policies that will emanate from the MOU.
