Gary works for Hoyer UK Ltd as a driver trainer. He was seconded to Transaid’s Professional Driver Training Project in Zambia in August 2009 for ten days. During this period he worked with the Industrial Training Centre (ITC) in Lusaka as part of a series of inputs from Hoyer UK, who sent out three driver trainers to deliver driver training and hazardous chemical training.
What activities were you involved in during the ten days that you were in Zambia?
I was involved in driver trainer assessment and assessment of driver training methods. In addition, I also conducted refresher training as and when necessary.
What did you find the most challenging aspect of your time in Zambia?
The difficulty of making the most of the limited equipment available and effectively using the limited resources available was probably the most challenging aspect. Additionally, I found it was also a challenge to try to encourage people to adopt new approaches.
What did you achieve during this trip?
The recommendations I made during my time working with the Industrial Training Centre in Lusaka have been put forward and accepted. These are being implemented and will lead to improvements in the way that driver training is carried out at the ITC.
...and the best part of the trip?
Overall, the entire ten day period was enjoyable. In particular meeting new people and sightseeing were some of the highlights. As a result of my experiences in Zambia, I have learned not to take anything for granted.
What is your view of the project now that you have participated in it yourself?
Participating in the Transaid Driver Training Project was an inspiring experience, particularly knowing that my skills could be utilised to promote positive attitudes and attributes to help increase the ability of driver trainers. Everyone was always very keen to learn and develop their own knowledge.
The view from Hoyer:
“Hoyer are delighted to support Transaid and recognise the exceptional work being undertaken by the charity's staff and volunteers. Our Driver Trainers are privileged to be a part of such a project and it is a real honour to be involved in something that truly does make a difference to people’s lives. Through our involvement we recognise that there is still much to be done and that more resources are always required which is why we will continue to support Transaid now and into the future."
– Allan Davison, Divisional Director – Hoyer
Gary took part in the Zambia Driver Trainer Study Tour earlier this year and returned to Zambia in July of this year. In addition, he has recently revisited Zambia to provide further driver training to the six trainers now established at the ITC.
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