The Welwitschia University will establish a state-of-the-art university at Usakos in the Erongo Region.

This is contained in the memorandum of understanding signed between the university and Usakos Town Council in Windhoek.

The Usakos Town Council will identify land where the university will be built.

With a high unemployment rate, especially among the youth in the town, the establishment of the university will aid in youth training and skill development.

"Usakos is one of the towns that is really hit hard; therefore, this move is welcomed by Usakos, and coming to Usakos will not only be beneficial to the residents but surrounding areas as well. We are talking about the Erongo Region that consist of Omaruru, Arandis, Karibeb, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund," said Mayor Irene Simeon-Kurtz.

Lesley Goreseb, the town's CEO, added, "We are looking forward to how we can benefit from this MoU because we have youth that are very unemployed. When we sign agreements like this, it should not gather dust. Immediately on Monday, we should already work on the implementing strategy.".

The two parties will further collaborate on the integration of work-based learning for students, research and development, health and environmental management, waste management, and sanitation.

The agreement will also cover employee wellness programmes and occupational health, peri-urban agriculture and food security, community education and development, and social and community work.

"The MoU will also facilitate student exchange to come to your town and staff accommodate them. The whole purpose is to foster collaboration, unity, and friendship between town council and university. We approached various councils, including yours, but I should applaud you on your speed in attending to this," said Professor Marius Hedimbi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the Welwitschia University.

The MoU will be in place for five years and maybe renewed.