Erongo Governor Neville Andre said the government's goal is to inspire young Namibians to seriously consider pursuing careers in the maritime sector, which is crucial for economic growth and development.
Andre added that this is especially important given the emerging industries of oil and gas and green hydrogen, which necessitate building the maritime capacity for future advancements.
The governor, who was speaking during the commemoration of World Maritime Day at Walvis Bay, said it is clear that the ongoing advancements in the exploration for oil and gas, alongside the green hydrogen industry in Namibia, are creating substantial national and international opportunities.
He said the sector is deeply interconnected with maritime activities, encompassing a comprehensive range of operations from initial exploration and development phases to construction, production, and various support services.
He added that the existing infrastructure for oil storage in the Erongo Region serves as a solid foundation for these industries and will be augmented by the multiple green hydrogen initiatives currently being developed in the region.
"Prominent initiatives such as the Daures Green Hydrogen Village located in the Daures Constituency, Cleanergy Solutions Namibia near Walvis Bay Airport, and the HyIron-Oshivela Project situated close to Arandis in the Karibib Constituency are but some of the frontrunner projects that are poised to significantly bolster the Namibian Maritime Sector and national economy."
Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa said the ports represent a bridge between the aspirations and the achievements that link Namibia to international trade routes, regional markets, and the world's economies.
"Our transportation networks—our roads, railways, and ports—will be the arteries through which this clean energy flows, enabling Namibia to rise to global prominence in the clean energy sector. 6. At the same time, Namibia's emerging oil and gas industry offers us an opportunity to secure our place on the global energy map."
The collaboration between Namibia's education sector, the maritime industry, and the broader private sector would therefore go a long way in strengthening Namibia's skills capacity and the ability to effectively utilise and harness the benefits that are presented by the promising oil and gas finds.
Therefore, all participating schools and visitors are encouraged at this week's events to immerse themselves fully in the activities, actively engage with one another, and share innovative ideas.