- Modernisation of the Toyota Academy Learning for Africa marks a significant investment milestone
- The Toyota Academy Learning for Africa offers structured training and development including artisan qualifications
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is excited about the recent reopening of its Learning Academy following a significant renovations investment. The Toyota Academy Learning for Africa (TALA) is Toyota’s state-of-the-art hub that offers structured training pathways for dealer personnel, employees, suppliers and automotive leaders.
Since its inception in 2006, TALA has served as a key enabler of Toyota’s local holistic training and development needs, including artisan qualification. The modernisation of TALA is timely as the automotive industry continues to change at a rapid speed. As a capability-building engine for Toyota, TALA’s purpose is premised on developing people to consistently deliver excellent customer experiences and to prepare personnel for the changing automotive and technology landscape. The enhanced facilities have been designed to create a learning environment that supports collaboration, confidence and continuous improvement.
Commenting at the reopening of TALA, Vice President Sales and Dealer Network at Toyota South Africa Motors, Kerry Roodt said, “The investment into the modernisation of the Toyota Academy Learning for Africa reflects our belief that learning, development and capability building are central to the future of Toyota. The Academy exists to translate investment in people into sturdier business performance, stronger dealer capability and a better customer experience. With advancements in vehicle technology and the evolution of retail models, TALA will provide an enabling environment for our people to learn and grow in alignment with these changes to ensure our continued competitiveness.”
Against a backdrop of persistent technical skills shortages in South Africa, TALA has played a pivotal role in developing artisans and technical specialists required to support Toyota’s operations and the broader manufacturing sector. TALA also offers competency-based modular training programmes such as Workshop Assistant and Automotive Motor Mechanic, Toyota Sales Advisor learnership and a Higher Certificate in Marketing Management.
The Academy is also currently in the process of becoming an External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) certified for Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) trades, further expanding its ability to support nationally recognised technical qualifications.
In addition to trade certifications, TALA also offers training facilities that allow for hands-on experience using integrated Toyota systems in a structured training environment. Other training conducted at TALA includes upskilling programmes such as PicoScope, a Global Toyota Technician Program, New Energy Vehicle training, SAP HANA, Sales CRM and various soft skills.
The modernised TALA also boasts technologically advanced training rooms with 215 seats, a 218-seater auditorium, a Dealer Council room and meeting facilities, a coffee shop and collaboration spaces. Every classroom, workshop, meeting room, technology space and collaborative area has been designed with the purpose to enable learning, capability development and business success.
“TALA is more than a training facility. It is a symbol of our confidence and commitment to the future. The Academy exists to support our dealer network and employees in their development goals. The facilities are modern and practical, offering a future-fit learning environment that reflects the standards of our organisation. We look forward to more learning, collaboration and growth of our people,” concluded Roodt.
