President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for alignment between education and the country's evolving economic priorities, stressing that targeted skills development is critical to unlocking opportunities in emerging sectors.
Addressing graduates at the University of Namibia, Nandi-Ndaitwah said higher education institutions should be deliberate about labour market demands by introducing programmes that directly address existing and future skills gaps.
She warned that the country risks falling behind if it does not begin training professionals on green hydrogen, clean energy and resource value addition.
The President stressed the need for qualified Namibians to take up roles in sectors expected to drive economic transformation.
"Surely, we will need qualified Namibians in all these sectors. It is, therefore, critical that our institutions of higher learning, such as UNAM, must not be found wanting. Training in these fields must start today if it has not already started yesterday."
The President linked education directly to employment outcomes, noting that the government has introduced structured internship and apprenticeship programmes to equip graduates with practical experience.
Under these initiatives, public institutions are required to allocate resources for graduate placements to ease the transition from education into the workforce.
"I call upon the private sector to join hands with the government and make this programme a success. Your support will make meaningful contributions towards better equipping students with the practical skills that the market demands. In turn, you will have an opportunity to benefit through incentives offered in this regard. Social and economic development is not possible without the requisite knowledge and skills. Equally, the application of research and innovation is critical to accelerating socio-economic development and to informing evidence-based policymaking."
Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah also pointed to the government's intervention in education financing as a key pillar of skills development.
She cited a subsidised tertiary education model and expanded student support as measures aimed at widening access to training opportunities.
The president said the achievements of the graduates reflect strong leadership within the education sector, adding that UNAM continues to rank among reputable universities globally.