Eight out of 400 applicants will move a step closer to achieving their career goals by participating in the Development Bank of Namibia's Young Professionals Programme (YPP), which was launched today.

With its highest ever intake, this two-year programme offers high-performing graduates the opportunity to accelerate their transition from university into a rewarding career in development finance.

The revitalised 2025 Young Professionals Programme is a strategic development initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing talent essential to driving Namibia's economic growth and development.

By providing participants with comprehensive exposure to the bank's key operational areas and evolving skill requirements, the YPP aims to cultivate future industry specialists.

The acting CEO of the DBN, John Mbango, emphasised the programme's goal of accelerating careers by transforming academic excellence into industry expertise.

"The YPP further contributes to Namibia's long-term development by building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce equipped to tackle complex economic challenges. By cultivating young leaders in the field of development finance, the programme aims to close the skills gap, promoting innovation and driving national progress."

Abraham Mabuta, a participant in the programme, was ecstatic to have been selected, and he is determined to make the most of the opportunity presented to him.

The Development Bank has an individually tailored plan for each participant, based on assessments that identify key development areas and prepare them for roles in relevant industries or areas of interest.