Cooperation with ETH Zurich
HPW has been active in Africa for more than 25 years. It is very important to us to strengthen local managers.
With this in mind, our management teams at the two production sites in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire are made up exclusively of local managers. In order to deepen this important aspect of our business model, we have started a collaboration with ETH Zurich and Asheshi University as part of the Masters programme 'Mechatronics Engineering'. What exactly does this collaboration involve and how is the training programme put together?
The motivation
We recognize the need for highly qualified engineers from Africa to drive sustainable industrial development within the region. This motivation has led to the creation of a new university degree program, developed in collaboration by ETH Zurich and Ashesi University in Ghana. HPW fully supports this initiative and is committed to creating value at the source by nurturing motivated and skilled decision-makers from Africa. We see significant potential in the fields of production, technology, and engineering. Consequently, training and further educating our employees is a key component of HPW's successful operations in Africa.
The programme
The training program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in Africa. Focusing on 'Mechatronics Engineering,' it equips selected students with essential production and automation knowledge. This Master's program is unique, featuring collaborative teaching by faculty members from both universities, fostering a bilateral exchange of knowledge. The three-year program is conducted in Ghana, and students earn a double degree from both institutions.
The industry partners
HPW is actively involved in the training program as an industrial partner, alongside five other renowned companies such as Bühler, Nestle, and ABB. Through HPW's support, two selected students receive full scholarships and the opportunity to begin working at our production facilities immediately after graduation. These students benefit from close mentoring by an HPW manager and regular internships in production, allowing them to apply their acquired knowledge in a real-world setting. This collaboration enables us to leverage cutting-edge expertise in production and engineering, strengthening our factories at the source and fostering local talent.
