The ||Kharas Governor has officially kicked off a youth and industry symposium in Lüderitz - a conversation that focuses on mining, oil and gas and the green hydrogen sectors that reshape Namibia's economic future.
Regional and traditional leaders, youth representatives and captains of the industry gathered under one roof to explore how the hydrocarbons, oil and gas and green hydrogen can translate into real opportunities, especially for the Namibian youth.
||Kharas Governor Dawid Gertze called on role players in these sectors to honour their social licences through community investment, increased corporate responsibility and stronger partnership with government.
"Let us co-create a model for impactful development assistance. Let us move beyond charity. Let us invest in project support that builds lasting infrastructure. Let us champion skills development programmes that are tailored to your actual operational needs, mentor SMEs and foster entrepreneurship. Help us build not just a workforce but a thriving local economy that will outlast any single project."
Gertze also challenged academic and training institutions to align their programmes with the realities of a rapidly evolving energy market.
"Our universities and vocational training centres (VTC) must urgently align their curricula with this new reality. We need degrees and diplomas that speak the language of energy, that understand the technology of deep-water exploration and the economics of just energy transition. We must produce graduates who are not just job seekers but job creators and solution providers."
The Special Advisor on Presidential Affairs, Christine ||Hoebes on behalf of Vice President Lucia Witbooi, highlighted the importance of aligning the region's plans with the NDP 6.
"This alignment is essential if we are to achieve the ambitious goals we set for ourselves; the very symposium is a powerful testament to that alignment. It demonstrates how local aspirations are harmonised with Namibia's broader national vision and ensures that approaches are well coordinated, strategic, and focused on maximising the benefits."
The youth are expected to put forward ideas, raise concerns and map out how they can actively participate in the sectors shaping Namibia's future during sessions for 2 days.