The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) has introduced the first version of the National Policy on Qualifications Standards. 

The policy aims to facilitate the development of relevant skills and knowledge creation.

Speaking during an NQA stakeholder consultative meeting in Rundu, Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka said the Qualification Standard Policy will help provide assurance, create confidence among employers, and offer learners a clear pathway for career development. 

He noted that the initiative will address youth unemployment challenges, skills shortages in key sectors, and changing demands in the labour market.

"It becomes increasingly important that qualifications reflect the knowledge, competencies and skills required by our economy. As Kavango East continues to pursue economic growth and social development, we need a workforce that is skilled, adaptable and prepared for emerging opportunities. Initiatives such as this one contribute towards building that future."

Joseph Amunyela, Head of Qualifications at the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA), explained that the policy will ensure that the training courses provided lead to qualifications that are aligned with the demands of the job market.

"Ministries and professional bodies, you are our primary partners. We are going to establish what we refer to as 'national standards-setting bodies'; these bodies will comprise your members. You will oversee the assessment of how many professionals we require in this field. Now that we have sufficient teachers in the market, can the country shift its focus to a different direction in training?"

Key stakeholders present raised concerns over the high intake of students enrolled in education and nursing programmes, which does not balance the demand and supply. 

The MICT team also spoke to some participants, and this is what they had to say.

The Chairperson of the National Organisation of Parents in Education, Leevi Mundabo, was among those present. He remarked, "We are overlooking agriculture, especially considering that this is a predominantly vegetarian area where we should focus more on agricultural specialisation. Additionally, we are neglecting fields such as engineering, aquaculture, and other important subjects."

Romanes Haingura, a student representative from Alba Chapamba Rundu Training Centre, expressed positive feelings, stating, "This policy will help us achieve a better balance between supply and demand."