The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) has completed its first-ever digital literacy training in the Zambezi Region.
Twenty young participants from the Kabbe South Constituency received certificates after completing the training.
Senior Information Officer for MICT in the Zambezi Region, Nicholas Chaka, said while all government ministries are responsible for digital literacy, the ultimate responsibility lies with MICT.
"Apply online; whether you live in urban or rural areas, in Namibia, everyone should be digitally literate; everyone needs to know about telecommunication, using email accounts and applying for employment online," Chaka said.
He added that basic computer knowledge is especially important for job seekers.
"A computer should not be a complicated tool for anyone; it's the ministry's responsibility to see to it that we're all on the same level, knowing how to switch it on, read my emails, apply for work online, or even when one is in the village, you could still listen to news online or apply for work or even a loan," he said.
"Ministries such as defence have their requirements online; such information is easily attainable when one is digitally literate."
Participants expressed enthusiasm about their new skills.
"We found knowledge we did not possess; now we know how to switch on a computer and do other tasks such as typing. We know enough to at least show those who don't know how to do so," said trainee Lennie Mutwamezi.
"I just wanted to share with people like myself that these are important skills because with the way the country is developing, we must also move at that pace," said fellow trainee Simwanza Mutwamezi.
"So I really want to say to the youth that we must thank the government, and if possible, they should continue with the training and not leave it here."
John Munyanya, a resident of Nakabolelwa who accepted a certificate on behalf of his son, urged the graduates to put their skills to use.
"Don't put it in your pocket. Force that certificate; use it to make your resume until you find unemployment. I'm telling you now that a certificate is not for decorating the house with; use it."
MICT said the Zambezi training is just the beginning, with more communities expected to benefit from similar initiatives.