OMUTHIYA: Students have been implored to stay the course and not abandon their educational pursuits by Nathalia Goagoses, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Training and Innovation, in a bid to contribute to the nation’s development goals.

According to NAMPA, who was speaking at the opening of the Omuthiya Vocational Training Centre (OMVTC) Youth Expo on Thursday, the determination and persistence of students are pivotal for realizing Namibia’s Vision 2030 and achieving the country’s development plans. Her address in the Oshikoto Region emphasized the role of education in advancing towards a knowledge-based economy and responding to global dynamism.

Highlighting the importance of vocational training, Goagoses underscored its significance in transforming Namibia’s economy by developing skilled professionals. She also mentioned the recent discoveries of green hydrogen, oil, and gas within the country, noting the need for serious learning to manage and add value to these resources.

In her call to action, Goagoses appealed to local authorities to establish beneficial collaborations to aid the youth in building their future, stressing the necessity for creating opportunities to combat poverty and hunger. She further encouraged students to enroll in the 90 private vocational training institutions across Namibia that are officially recognized.

To honor the legacy of Sam Nuyoma, the nation’s Founding President, and to progress towards Vision 2030, Goagoses urged unregistered vocational training centers to obtain official recognition from qualification bodies within the country.

Mocks Shivute, the chairperson of OMVTC, detailed the center’s efforts to raise funds for training equipment through the expo, listing auto mechanics, welding, hospitality, tourism, and office administration as some of the courses offered. Shivute expressed the need for support from stakeholders in providing equipment for these technical trades, noting that there had been no responses to their requests for donations.

OMVTC, as a private institution situated in Omuthiya, remains committed to fostering practical skills and contributing to the skilled workforce of Namibia.