Eighty-two residents of Walvis Bay have graduated from the 2026 SWAN Community Seminars, gaining practical skills to improve employment prospects, promote entrepreneurship and strengthen livelihoods.
The programme, run by SWAN Assembly Trust in partnership with Sweden's Flamingo Group, offers free training in basic computer literacy, environmental health and safety, needlework, entrepreneurship and carpentry, with a particular focus on empowering young people and the wider community.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Kuisebmond, Erongo Governor, Dr. Nathalia |Goagoses challenged graduates to turn their newly acquired skills into economic opportunities, stressing that certificates must translate into practical action.
The initiative has invested N$111,350 in this year's programme, covering training, equipment, tutors and administrative costs.
Since its establishment in 2007, approximately N$900,000 has been invested in the seminars, producing close to 5,000 graduates.
"I encourage you to put the skills you have acquired into practice. Use your computer skills to embrace digital opportunities, your needlework and carpentry skills to explore income-generating activities, and your entrepreneurship knowledge to develop business ideas. Those trained in environmental, health and safety should become ambassadors of safe and responsible practices in their communities and workplaces."
Kuisebmond Secondary School Principal Jonathan Maswahu reaffirmed the institution's commitment to education beyond the classroom.
"As a school, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom and that learning should remain a lifelong opportunity for everyone. We sincerely appreciate the continued support of the SWAN Assembly Trust and the Flamingo Group in Sweden for making these opportunities possible."
The partnership also supports vulnerable learners and university students while contributing to the construction of the Kuisebmond Secondary School hall.
The organisers say the programme remains focused on creating opportunities through skills development, community empowerment and education.