The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Toyota Iraq are proud to announce the successful completion of the Automotive Technicians Training Program, a vocational training initiative generously funded by the Government of Germany through the German Development Bank (KfW), aimed at empowering youth in Baghdad.
From August to November 2024, 19 young trainees participated in a comprehensive three-month course. The program featured an integrated approach combining classroom education with hands-on training at Toyota dealerships in Baghdad and Wasit Governorate, helping to develop the trainees’ core skills.
The training covered essential skills such as basic vehicle maintenance, repair techniques, and environmentally friendly automotive services, including principles of safety and work ethics. Graduates of the program now hold recognized qualifications that significantly enhance their employability in the automotive sector. 
Sascha Graumann, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP Iraq stated: "We are proud to celebrate the success of this initiative, which reflects our commitment to supporting the youth of Iraq and building resilience in communities affected by conflict. "He added: "This partnership with Toyota Iraq is a great example of how collaboration between the public and private sectors can create sustainable opportunities for vulnerable populations." 
Sardar Al-Bebany, President of Toyota Iraq, expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this program and the support for Iraqi youth.
Tadashi Tanimoto, CEO of Toyota Iraq, said: "At Toyota Iraq, we believe in the transformative power of education and training, especially for the youth who represent the future of Iraq. This vocational training program is not only about developing technical skills, but also about empowering young Iraqis to build a better future for themselves and contribute to the growth of Iraq's economy. We are fully committed to supporting the next generation of professionals in the automotive industry and fostering a skilled workforce that will drive Iraq’s development in the years to come." 
This initiative is part of the "Building Resilience through Employment Enhancement (BREP I)"project, which reached a total of 10,731 trainees across Anbar, Nineveh, Kirkuk, Diyala, and Salah al-Din Governorates by October 2024, highlighting the significant impact of vocational training in promoting recovery and resilience in Iraq. 
This partnership represents an important step toward achieving Iraq’s 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals by improving employability, fostering inclusive economic growth, and supporting the active participation of youth, women, and persons with disabilities in the development process.
