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LEADERSHIP: Ohangwena governor, Kadiva Hamutumwa. PHOTO: Kenya Kambowe
LEADERSHIP: Ohangwena governor, Kadiva Hamutumwa. PHOTO: Kenya Kambowe

Vocational jobs vital to Namibia’s prosperity – Hamutumwa

Kenya Kambowe
Ohangwena regional governor Kadiva Hamutumwa has urged people not to look down on vocational training, describing it as a crucial sector that could help tackle the country’s high unemployment rate.

“Let us never look down on vocational training. Let us raise it up as a national treasure. I want to see more young Namibians choosing to become artisans, engineers and technical specialists, because in your hands lies the power to transform not only your lives but also the destiny of our nation,” she said.

Hamutumwa made the remarks on Thursday during the inauguration of more than 600 graduates from various vocational training centres in Helao Nafidi.

The governor underscored that white-collar professions are no longer the only route to success.

"The era where white-collar professions were the only path to success is long gone. The future belongs to blue-collar professionals: to the plumbers, the electricians, the builders, the metal fabricators, the IT technicians, the auto mechanics, and the hospitality experts,” Hamutumwa said.

She told the graduates: “Namibia needs you, not just to be job seekers, but job creators."

The governor noted further that "these are the trades that build nations. These are the skills that form the foundation of a productive economy.”

Hamutumwa emphasised that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is not merely an alternative career path but an essential pillar of national development.



Recognising national needs

She said government recognises the critical importance of skills development.

“Under NDP6, one of our core priorities is human capital development; and what better way to achieve this than by investing in quality, relevant and responsive technical education?”

Hamutumwa urged the graduates to apply the skills they have acquired to create jobs and contribute to the economy.

“You will agree with me that as we are sitting here today, we are asking ourselves the famous question of where will all these over 610 graduates get employment? You have spent years developing a skill and now need to practise that skill and put bread on the table. Practise what you have learnt and contribute towards national growth,” Hamutumwa said.

She also acknowledged that government has taken note of the high level of unemployment amongst the youth.

"The National Youth Development Fund has been established as a strategic vehicle aimed at responding to creative ideas that are generated by yourselves as youth in creating, establishing, birthing and growing industry in the country.”

The fund, capitalised with over N$257 million, is financing youth-oriented projects and businesses that will boost employment creation in all 14 regions.

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-23

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