Opinions

JUNIAS ERASMUS For too long, vocational education in Namibia has been seen as less important because of the pervasive belief that only university degrees lead to success. This misconception has not only limited opportunities for many young people but has also contributed to a mismatch between workforce needs and available skills. In reality, vocational education offers a practical and empowering path to personal fulfillment, financial stability, and national development. It is time for Namibians to break free from outdated stereotypes and embrace vocational training as a cornerstone of a brighter, more inclusive future. Vocational education equips individuals with specialized, hands-on…

Since the official announcement of the presidential and national elections by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) on the 30th of November last year, the local media, both the traditional mainstream media, printed and broadcast, as well as the social media, has seen a mixed bag of congratulations and exasperation. Punctuated by celebrations with praise-singing for President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, popularly and gloriously dubbed NNN by the media, dubbing that seems indeed to have received the popular approval at large of her Swapo Party of Namibia, of which she was the presidential candidate. As for the party diehards, membership, supporters, sympathisers,…

Wayambekange N. Hamufenhu Each evening, “Kelao,” a 16-year-old girl, and her peers undertake a dangerous journey to the mountains of the “One Nation” informal settlement of Windhoek. The young Kelao, like many residents of the informal settlements, daily navigate risks such as snake bites and potential assaults in their search for basic hygiene. The urgency of their situation is heightened by the unintended consequence of trampling upon the waste they carry back to their shacks amid hurried retreats prompted by any hint of danger. The Government of Namibia has boldly decided to address the challenges faced by residents like Kelao,…

Junias Erasmus As parents and grade 12 graduates in Namibia eagerly await the release of the 2024 Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary (NSSCO) and Advanced Subsidiary (NSSCAS) results, many find themselves at a crossroads. The outcomes of these exams will serve as a pivotal moment, determining not only the academic paths ahead but also shaping their future opportunities and career prospects. Universities are about to open their doors for the 2025 academic year, and thousands of Grade 12 graduates will soon face the important decision of which career path to pursue. Yet, despite the excitement and anticipation, too many students…

Paul T. Shipale Once again, the death of president Geingob has now brought to the fore the debate about the possible gender imbalance in terms of SWAPO’s zebra style policy. The policy commits SWAPO to fill its top four positions and parliamentary list with a 50:50 gender balance, whereby if for example the party president is a man, the vice president should be a woman and vice versa. This policy is set to face its sternest test at the extraordinary congress slated to take place from 28 February to 02 March 2025 as SWAPO’s leadership currently consists of two women…