Dry-Genice Higoam and Wilbard Mbenzi emerged as the overall winners of this year's National Skills Competition, which concluded at Ongwediva on Saturday.
The National Skills Competition is an initiative by the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation (MHETI) and the Namibia Training Authority (NTA). The Ongwediva Trade Fair Centre buzzed with activities as a passionate group of competitors gathered to showcase and compete in their respective skills.
Judging from the setup, there is no doubt that one of the defining characteristics of vocational training is its targeted and focused approach. It was a display of a land of endless opportunities at the colourful centre as the 158 competitors blended theory with practical experience.
There were 14 skills, and competitors had a week to prove themselves.
Last night, stakeholders gathered to witness the outcomes of the week, with an initial emphasis on why technical and vocational training (TVET) is a lifesaver. Although every participant was a winner, some standout individuals couldn't contain their tears of joy. Competitors such as Simonie Swartbooi broke stereotypes and boundaries when she scooped a gold medal in the welding skill set, a trade mostly associated with men.
This platform was non-discriminatory, as even offenders such as Lawrence Tjiundja, who is currently incarcerated at the Windhoek Correctional Facility, took part. Tjiundja achieved an impressive second place and secured the silver medal in the field of wall and floor tiling.
This achievement was possibly his best step towards community integration, as he is scheduled to regain his freedom later this month. The youthful duo Dry-Genice Higoam and Wilbard Mbenzi were declared overall winners of the 2023 National Skills Competition.
These two have earned the opportunity to compete and represent Namibia at World Skills International in France in 2024.
TVET is a trade that enables individuals to gain a deep understanding of their chosen field and become highly proficient in their craft.