By Amanuel Endris,
In automotive and manufacturing sector, where grit and innovation combine to great effect, three young Ethiopians have made their mark at the national stage. Abraham Getachew, Hailegabriel Chernat, and Nuredin Jemal, all trainees at Kombolcha Polytechnic College in Ethiopia, emerged winners in the automotive and manufacturing categories at the recently concluded National Skills Competition.
The Polytechnic College, one of the seven Regional Flagship TVET Institutes in Ethiopia supported by EASTRIP, recently faced a devastating civil conflict that almost destroyed it. Despite facing adversity, the rise of the three young men from the ashes of civil conflict to shine at the national stage is testimony to their hard work, grit and innovation required to succeed in the sector.
The students from Kombolcha Polytechnic College who excelled at the 3rd National Skills Competition.
Abraham, a 20-year-old Level lV Trainee manufacturing, competed in the mechanics skills competition and emerged victorious, taking home a gold medal and a prize of ETB 100,000 (USD 1851). His performance demonstrated his potential to drive innovations in the industry, for many years to come.
Hailegabriel, a 21-year-old and an equally impressive Level IV Trainee in the welding sector, is known as the cheetah for his exceptional speed and accuracy in the welding skill competition. He came in second place, winning a silver medal and ETB 80,000 (USD 1481), but with his talent and technique he promises to stand out in the industry.
Nuredin, a 21-year-old Level IV Trainee excelled in the auto electrical skill competition under the automotive training category. Though he came in second place, winning a silver medal and ETB 80,000 (USD 1481), his skills and attention to details demonstrates that he will continue to create impact in the industry.
Their performances in their respective fields are a testament to the quality of education and training at Kombolcha Polytechnic College, which has been providing trainees with practical training and guidance for almost two decades. Their achievements will inspire fellow students and peers to push the boundaries of innovation in the automotive industry. As they continue to hone their skills and pave the way for a new generation of skilled professionals, we can only wait and see what they will accomplish next.
The Writer is Communication Officer for Kombolcha Polytechnic College