Oando announces to train 500 mechanics during 2016 edition of the Oleum Academy

Selected participants were shortlisted through nominations on online media platforms and by recognized mechanic associations; Nigerian Automobile Technician Association (NATA), and Motor Mechanic and Technician Association of Nigerian (MOMTAN) likewise Carpartsnigeria.

The CEO of Oando Marketing Limited, Yomi Awobokun said, “Oleum Academy is aimed at improving the expertise level of Nigerian Auto-mechanics and ensuring the skill acquisition rate is up to par with the evolution in the auto industry. We expect this project to contribute to the Nigerian economy by creating more opportunities for the mechanics and car owners. We remain committed to the goal to train 5000 mechanics by the year 2020.”

Awobokun further noted, “The Oleum Academy initiative is positioned to address several issues. To begin with, car technology is constantly evolving and vehicle features are becoming more advanced than ever. As a result, vehicles can prove either interesting or difficult to work on depending on the mechanic’s level of training. Also, the requisite skill and know how is important in order to avoid the spate of auto solutions given based on trial and error approach by technicians who are self-trained as this could prove costly for all parties concerned, or worse still lead to accident or loss of life”.

The first edition debuted in Lagos, but as part of its expansion plan, Oleum Academy will be training mechanics in other cities this year. Lilian Ikokwu, The Head of Lubes said, “This year we are expanding nationwide, as we understand that the need for upgraded skills in the automobile industry is not restricted to one region. We really look forward to the impact such training will have on reducing accidents caused by mechanical faults.”

One of the inductees, Akanji Oroge commenting on the program said, “One of my customers nominated me on Facebook and I got a call for this training. I know other people that have done this training and I have heard their experiences, I feel very happy to be part of the 2016 set. I know I will learn a lot and be better at my workshop.”

The mechanic training initiative is just one of the downstream giant’s laudable Corporate Social Responsibility and social initiatives. Others include a free annual car diagnostic event for automobile owners and sponsorship of The Lady Mechanic Initiative (LMI), a non-governmental organization established to empower vulnerable girls and women with mechanical and technical skills, and enable them become competent and qualified professionals in the field of automotive repairs.

Organizations have a major role to play in supporting the alternative learning and skills development project, an initiative of the African Development Bank which provides high quality vocational training and mirrors the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for poverty reduction and the development strategy in the country.