The Swapo Party Vice President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, urged the youth to embrace the party's manifesto, which includes targeted interventions aimed at addressing Namibia's socio-economic challenges.

Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah addressed the youth during a "Youth in Conversation with Netumbo" session held in Keetmanshoop.

The discussion covered key issues such as the role of education in nation-building, opportunities in the mining and energy sectors, agriculture's potential to create jobs and boost food security, and avenues for entrepreneurship.

“We are familiarizing ourselves with the manifesto, and once we take ownership of it, implementation will follow smoothly. For example, education is a major focus. One of the key concerns highlighted is the quality of education and how to address inefficiencies in the system,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.

The session also provided a platform for young people to ask questions. One participant raised concerns about the large number of school dropouts, asking, “What are we going to do to help those on the streets, the many high school dropouts, some of whom left as early as Grade 2?”

Another youth questioned the growing issue of mental health among learners and sought solutions to this pressing concern.

In response, Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized that the responsibility for ensuring children stay in school lies with the entire community, not just teachers, ministers, or the president.

She also referenced expert opinions, stating that the government's contribution to learners' poor performance stands at 35%, with the rest attributed to teachers, learners, and parents. Mental health, another growing issue, is also addressed in the party's manifesto.