Investing in people pays great dividends. Well-trained drivers have fewer accidents, are more efficient and have greater job satisfaction.
Vocational training is a crucial part of the bigger education picture in road transport, as in most other sectors.
Sustainable economic growth and job creation require a thriving road transport sector backed by a trained and motivated workforce. The highest training standards are essential for supply chains and transport networks to operate safely and efficiently.
Drivers are asked to keep up with an ever-evolving environment. Whether that be with new standards, laws and regulations, or technologies, drivers must continually adapt to such change.
For example, professional drivers now have a key role to play in helping the industry to reach its target of net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. Through eco-driving, professional drivers can increase their fuel efficiency by up to 15%.
IRU trains thousands of drivers and transport operators every year to ensure better safety, efficiency and sustainability.
Through a network of over 40 associate training institutes in more than 35 countries, the IRU Academy, the training arm of IRU, equips employees with the knowledge and skills needed to do their job well, adapt to change and improve the industry’s performance.
The Academy’s internationally recognised standards and certification make road transport more professional and help to create a reliable workforce. Advances in technology and online learning have allowed the Academy to expand its reach, particularly in developing countries.
Mobility is an important driver for several UN SDGs, with a fundamental impact on sustainable economic development.
Attracting new drivers
The IRU Academy is also raising awareness of the benefits offered by jobs in road transport, as the sector faces a chronic shortage of professional drivers. According to road transport operators, the current driver shortage crisis is caused by a lack of skilled drivers in most regions.
To encourage more people to join the profession, including women and young people, the industry is working with governments to remove barriers to entry for young people, improve working conditions and subsidise licence and training costs.