Renthia Kaimbi
More than 170 unemployed young people in Lüderitz are set to benefit from a free Learner’s Licence Preparation Initiative launched by the Hilaria Driving Academy.
The programme, spearheaded by Hilaria Erastus and Kaunapawa Nikodemus, was created to tackle a critical barrier to employment, which is the lack of a driver’s or learner’s licence, which is often a mandatory requirement for job seekers in the region.
By removing the financial burden of preparatory classes, the organisers aim to level the playing field and open doors to economic participation for the town’s youth.
The official launch of the initiative is scheduled for 27 June 2026, with classes commencing on 29 June 2026.
The response from the community has been overwhelming, with registrations surpassing 170, a clear indication of both the pressing need for such support and the strong determination among young people to better their circumstances through skills development.
Participants enrolled in the programme will receive comprehensive training covering road traffic signs, rules of the road, road markings, lane usage, safe and defensive driving principles, driver responsibilities, legal requirements, and common test questions, alongside targeted examination techniques.
Beyond improving individual employability, the curriculum is designed to foster broader road safety awareness and responsible driving habits that benefit the entire community.
Despite the enthusiastic public response, the road to launching the initiative was not without hurdles.
The organisers approached several companies and stakeholders for sponsorship and support but received only limited assistance.
This disappointment, however, did not deter Erastus and Nikodemus, who remained steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that unemployed youth in Lüderitz would not be deprived of this valuable opportunity.
They told the Windhoek Observer that they hold a firm belief that empowering young people with knowledge and practical skills, such as obtaining a learner’s licence, contributes meaningfully to employment readiness, road safety, and the overall development of the community.
They said they remain hopeful that more organisations and businesses will recognise the long-term impact of such initiatives and come on board to support future efforts.
The programme has already received crucial backing from the mayor of Lüderitz, Brigitte Fredericks, whose assistance in sourcing and securing a suitable venue was instrumental in making the classes possible.
The Hilaria Driving Academy has expressed its sincere gratitude for her commitment to youth empowerment and community development, noting that her willingness to support such initiatives serves as a significant encouragement to everyone involved.
With over 170 registered participants, the scale of the programme highlights the continued need for resources, and the organisers are actively calling on individuals, businesses, and other stakeholders to contribute towards its success and sustainability.
Sponsorships, partnerships, donations of learning materials, refreshments, transport assistance, and venue support are all welcome.
Those interested in supporting the initiative can contact Hilaria Erastus at 081 712 0168 or Kaunapawa Nikodemus at 081 291 7655.
As the academy’s motto affirms, the goal is truly about “Empowering Lüderitz youth through knowledge, road safety, and opportunities for a better future.”
