Namibia Training Authority Chief Executive Officer Erick Nenghwanya has described the recently concluded 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, as an important lesson for Namibia.
He was speaking at the Zambezi Vocational Training Center graduation ceremony, where a total of 239 graduates were conferred with qualifications at Katima Mulilo.
“The competition brought together approximately 1,400 young skilled professionals from 68 countries and regions to compete in 64 technical and vocational skills disciplines. It demonstrated to the world that technical excellence, innovation, productivity, craftsmanship, and lifelong learning are central to the future of every nation and every country in the world."
Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture Sanet Steenkamp, in a message delivered on her behalf, highlighted significant investments made towards the institution.
"About N$ 62 million has been invested between 2020 and 2023. This investment reflects a strong commitment to strengthening the infrastructure and capacity of the Zambezi Vocational Training Center, ensuring that the centre is adequately equipped to respond to the growing demand for skilled human resources."
Dr Steenkamp also acknowledged the support provided by the Japanese Government to the institution.
"Through this partnership, the Japanese Government has supported the centre through funding, the construction of new workshop buildings, and the provision of training equipment valued at N$50 million."
This year's valedictorian, Mickson Sampofu, said vocational training should not be viewed as an alternative to university but as another pathway to opportunities.
"You can't limit yourself. Our parents always tell us to complete school and go to university. They want to see us at universities like UNAM or NUST. But that is not the only path. There are many people who started with vocational training and have ended up in high positions."
The institution introduced Level 4 qualifications across all trades in 2024, providing trainees with an opportunity to advance their skills and qualifications within their respective fields.
The centre also plans to introduce a Level 5 Diploma in Agriculture.