The Manager of TVET Standards at the Namibia Training Authority is concerned over the education system's treatment of informal and non-formal education.

Amon Haufiku said this at a recent regional stakeholder consultation in Windhoek, which focused on developing learning pathways for the technical and vocational education and training sector.

Haufiku finds fault with the systemic bias towards formal education, which he argues neglects the practical ability of individuals who possess technical skills but lack formal qualifications.

He highlighted an outstanding gap in the recognition and combination of these skills within the education and employment systems.

"We blocked the system deliberately and put them down, particularly people with technical competency skills. Who built this? The system does not recognize them."

Haufiku noted that while recent adjustments have made Grade 11 a requirement for university admission and job applications, there is a disconnect between this requirement and actual job market demands.

He also pointed out that job advertisements rarely specify Grade 11 as a qualification, instead listing Grade 12 as a minimum requirement.

This variance, he argued, leaves many skilled individuals without clear pathways to employment.

"We have to recognize people for the skills they have. We have reformed our education system. Grade 11, which has become a requirement in university, is able to seek employment, but I have never seen an advertisement for a vacant position requiring Grade 11, but about Grade 12 as a requirement. When are those learners going to be employed with this contradictory system? We reform systems partly and have not gone to HR to inform them."

The consultation, which brought together various stakeholders from different regions, focused on addressing these issues and finding solutions to improve recognition within the TVET sector.