Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has officially reopened its upgraded Toyota Academy Learning for Africa (TALA), following a substantial investment aimed at strengthening skills development and preparing automotive professionals for an evolving industry landscape.
The extensively refurbished facility now features training rooms accommodating 215 learners, an auditorium with seating for 218 people, a coffee shop, dedicated meeting rooms, collaboration spaces and a Dealer Council room. The modernised campus has been designed to support learning, innovation, capability development and business success across the Toyota network.
TALA delivers structured training programmes for dealer personnel, Toyota employees, suppliers and future automotive leaders. Every classroom, workshop and collaborative space has been equipped to support both technical and professional development initiatives.
The Academy offers a diverse range of education and development programmes, including Workshop Assistant and Automotive Motor Mechanic qualifications, a Toyota Sales Advisor learnership and a Higher Certificate in Marketing Management.
Learners also gain practical experience through integrated Toyota systems within a structured training environment, helping bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and workplace application.
Additional upskilling opportunities include training in PicoScope diagnostics, the Global Toyota Technician Program, New Energy Vehicle technologies, SAP HANA systems, Sales CRM platforms and a variety of leadership and soft-skills development courses.
TALA is currently in the process of obtaining External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) certification for Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) trades. Achieving this certification will further strengthen the Academy's ability to deliver nationally recognised technical qualifications and support workforce development within the automotive sector.
Established in 2006, TALA has played a critical role in supporting Toyota's training requirements, including artisan development and technical skills advancement. Toyota believes the latest investment comes at an important time as the industry adapts to rapid technological change, electrification and evolving retail models.
The Academy's core purpose remains focused on developing people who can consistently deliver outstanding customer experiences while adapting to the changing demands of the automotive and technology landscape.
Kerry Roodt, Vice President of Sales and Dealer Network at Toyota South Africa Motors, says the investment reflects Toyota's long-term commitment to education and skills development.
'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,' says Roodt.
He adds that the upgraded facility provides employees, dealer personnel and industry partners with an environment that supports ongoing growth as vehicle technologies continue to evolve.
The Academy's role is particularly significant against the backdrop of ongoing technical skills shortages within South Africa. Over the years, TALA has helped develop artisans and technical specialists not only for Toyota's operations but also for the broader automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Roodt believes the Academy represents more than simply a training facility.
'TALA is more than a training facility. It is a symbol of our confidence and commitment to the future,' he says.
He notes that the Academy exists to support Toyota employees and dealer partners in achieving their professional development goals while creating opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Looking ahead, Toyota expects the upgraded Academy to continue playing a vital role in preparing the next generation of automotive professionals and supporting the industry's ongoing transformation through learning, innovation and skills development.
