Hyundai Motor Group has forged a significant partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training to nurture skilled professionals for Vietnam’s rapidly expanding automotive sector. This strategic collaboration aims to equip the nation with a highly competent workforce, addressing the burgeoning demand for specialized talent in its dynamic car manufacturing industry.
The three key organizations formally cemented their commitment by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Hanoi, Vietnam, last week. This agreement is set to pave the way for a comprehensive program focused on developing a professional workforce precisely aligned with the evolving needs and technological advancements of the modern automotive industry.
Under the terms of this pivotal agreement, Hyundai Motor will be instrumental in designing a specialized curriculum. This curriculum will be meticulously crafted to reflect real-world manufacturing demands, offering hands-on, practical training in critical areas such as mold-making, metal forming, and advanced welding. The goal is to produce job-ready technicians highly skilled in the core processes of automotive production.
KOICA will play a vital role in overseeing the entire program’s design and management, leveraging its extensive experience in international development projects. Meanwhile, the Vietnam Ministry of Education and Training will provide essential support for the program’s seamless implementation through its network of affiliated educational institutions across the country, ensuring widespread access and national impact.
Slated to commence in the latter half of 2026 and continue through 2031, the initiative will specifically target Vietnamese youth who aspire to pursue technical careers within the automotive industry. A cornerstone of the program is its commitment to facilitating direct pathways to employment opportunities for graduates, including coveted positions at leading automotive parts suppliers in Vietnam and the broader region.
Officials emphasized that this collaborative effort is designed to empower participants with globally competitive manufacturing skills, thereby enhancing their career prospects. Beyond individual upskilling, the program is also strategically positioned to help alleviate labor shortages, benefiting both local Vietnamese enterprises and Korean small and medium-sized suppliers operating within the region.
“We aim to create a virtuous cycle that connects education with careers in the automotive industry,” stated Sung Kim, president of strategic planning at Hyundai Motor, underscoring the long-term vision and societal impact of this partnership.
Echoing this sentiment, Le Quan, Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Education and Training, highlighted that the program will be instrumental in addressing the country’s pressing need for a robust pool of skilled professionals.
Vietnam remains a pivotal market within Hyundai Motor’s expansive ASEAN strategy. The company is continuously expanding not only its commercial footprint but also its dedication to social contribution and vocational training programs across the nation, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth and community development in Southeast Asia.
