Stefanus Nashama
President Nangolo Mbumba urged private institutions to collaborate with the government to offer internships and job placements for graduates of the newly inaugurated Khorixas vocational Training Centre.
Mbumba was speaking at the inauguration of the Khorixas Vocational Training Centre in the Kunene region on Wednesday.
“We must be friendly. Those who have offices, shops and companies should be friendly to the graduates of this training centre because they will do beggar things for our country,” he urged.
Mbumba reiterated that such a partnership will ensure Namibia meets the diverse needs of its economy while providing ample opportunities for young people.
He believes that offering practical training in alignment with industry needs will enrich Namibians with the relevant skills necessary for today’s market.
“This initiative will empower our youth to become job creators rather than mere job seekers,” he said.
The Khorixas Centre project was initiated by the late vice president, Nickey Iyambo.
Mbumba said that the government aspires to turn Iyambo’s dream into a knowledge-based economy for the country.
“The Khorixas VTC promotes innovation and entrepreneurship among our youth,” he said.
He added that the centre envisions community members having access to vocational training that empowers them to reach their full potential.
“I urge all members of the Kunene community—parents, guardians, and young people—to seize this opportunity presented by the Khorixas Vocational Training Centre. This is your chance to gain valuable skills that will enhance your employability or enable you,” said Mbumba.
Mbumba emphasised the use of natural resources, cultural heritage, and industriousness to propel the country to the next step.
“Our country has entered a new and exciting phase of development, with the emerging Green Hydrogen as well as the oil and gas sectors offering tremendous potential for transforming our economy and catapulting our developmental aspirations into an era of untold success,” he said.
He said the Khorixas VTC will serve as a gateway for many young people to empower themselves through education and participate in emerging industries.
The centre offers a National Vocational Certificate in Bricklaying and Plastering, Joinery and Cabinetmaking, Plumbing and Pipefitting, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration.
He said that the careful selection of these programs was guided by local industry needs and community input.
Itah Kandji-Murangi, the minister of higher education, training, and innovation, said the construction of the Khorixas Centre cost N$79.5 million.
She further mentioned that the government is currently making efforts to secure additional funds for the construction of accommodations and additional blocks.
“The importance of this magnitude requires champions. The late vice president, Dr. Nickey Iyambo, was one of the champions of the project because he wanted to see it done and completed,” she said.
