Forget textbooks. Hyundai Automotive South Africa brought real-world automotive skills directly to schoolgirls in KwaZulu-Natal — and the results were extraordinary.
At Kloof High School in Durban, the company's qualified mechanics hosted a Young Girls Automotive Skills Workshop for Grade 12 learners. Rather than simply hearing about career opportunities in the motor industry, the girls rolled up their sleeves: changing tyres, running vehicle diagnostics and getting to grips with modern automotive electronics.
Mark Torrance, Regional General Manager: KwaZulu-Natal at Hyundai Automotive South Africa, said the initiative was designed to build genuine confidence. "By sharing practical automotive knowledge and basic vehicle skills with young learners early on, we are helping them build confidence and understanding. When they become active mobility consumers one day, they will be better equipped to understand their vehicles, make informed decisions and prioritise their safety on the road."
Suzanne van Der Merwe, Regional Fleet Manager: KwaZulu-Natal, echoed that sentiment. "Equipping young girls with essential vehicle knowledge at school level lays a strong foundation for the future. This knowledge contributes to ensuring they are more informed and safe future drivers."
Rob Holding, Principal of Kloof High School, was effusive in his praise. "Our girls learnt about tyre changing, oil and water checking, how to interpret warning lights and technological functions. This was a hugely successful, invaluable exercise and we express our deep appreciation to Hyundai for such a program."
This Durban workshop is just the beginning. Hyundai plans to roll out similar programmes across South Africa, with a particular focus on rural communities.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
