The Pioneers Boys' School Welding Workshop has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and the support of the Turkish government.
TIKA Country Coordinator Omer Ozbey emphasized the importance of practical skills for economic development and expressed hope that the workshop will inspire the youth towards future success.
"One of the main reasons for high youth unemployment is the lack of a sufficiently qualified workforce and essential skills in the labor market. We believe that institutions like this school are crucial in addressing this issue. Many of the school's graduates already contribute to economic development by either finding employment or starting their own businesses, thereby creating new jobs. We are proud to support a school that is successfully fulfilling this mission," he stated.
Brian Ndabeni, the principal of Pioneers Boys' School, highlighted job creation as a primary objective of the institution.
"Our goal is to empower students to become self-sufficient. We equip our children with skills that will enable them to create jobs for themselves. With high unemployment rates in Namibia, the training we provide is crucial for alleviating this issue. Thank you for this generous gift; together, we are building a bright future for our community," he said.
Turkish Ambassador to Namibia, Feral Cekerek Oruckaptan, expressed pride in TIKA's support for community initiatives and reaffirmed the Turkish government's commitment to uplifting communities through collaborative projects.
"The future is significant. Believe in yourself, and take full advantage of the refurbished workshop to acquire new skills. You are young and dynamic, and you are capable of achieving your goals at your own pace. We, as your seniors, have a responsibility to leave you a compassionate, just, sustainable, prosperous, and peaceful world. This project is part of our commitment to prepare you for future challenges with quality education and skills training," he said.
Laura McLeod-Katjirua, Governor of the |Khomas Region, praised TIKA for its renovation efforts, describing it as a vital step in equipping young people with essential skills.
"On behalf of the government, thank you once again for your extraordinary commitment to our learners and our future. Your generosity will have a lasting impact, enabling this school to provide quality training that enhances skills and fosters innovation. Thank you for being a friend; friendship is what brings the world together. Your generosity means everything to us and the learners we serve in this region," she stated.
She encouraged the youth to fully utilize the newly furnished workshop and embrace the opportunities available for their personal and professional growth.
The event was also attended by Emma Muketa, councillor of the Windhoek West Constituency, and Paulus Nghikembua, acting director of education.
To date, TIKA has successfully completed seven projects in Namibia.