Youth activist Gabes Eigowab, from the Omitara settlement, has said limited exposure and a lack of educational institutions and job opportunities continue to hinder motivated young people, despite government inclusivity efforts.
The dusty, quiet streets of Omitara paint a vivid picture of youth development challenges marked by high unemployment.
Activist Gabes Eigowab said institutions such as NAMCOL are needed in the area to help young people upgrade their results or enrol in short courses.
He added that while some youths are eager to seek employment, especially when opportunities arise in the police or the NDF, many fail to meet the requirements due to limited educational progress.
"The youth can engage in something like a VTC or something that will empower them and give them qualifications so they can go work at the end of the day for themselves. NAMCOL, in collaboration with schools, has a school until Grade 9, and that's the hindrance to the youth here. Once they finish Grade 9, it's challenging for them to go out of Omitara."
Eigowab raised concern about rising alcohol abuse among youth in Omitara, saying it causes many to also miss employment opportunities.
He noted that when jobs in the police or NDF become available, few youths apply due to a lack of interest and excessive drinking.
The youth activist also urged fellow young people to take responsibility for their future and stop the blame game, adding that the Omitara Youth Organisation serves as a link between the youth and government to address their challenges.
"For example, mass recruitment – we don't have an office here, so we make sure we collect three to five forms and liaise with the constituency councillor to get them and send the forms through. Any opportunities we share with those who qualify, but we also urge all the youth to just apply and do something, and we are in good communication with local leaders, and when they have opportunities, they share them with us, and we spread the good news."
The youth activist has also called on leaders to address land issues in the area.