Namibia launches TalentBridge with Germany - nbc скачать в хорошем качестве

Namibia launches TalentBridge with Germany - nbc

Namibia has taken another step toward tackling youth unemployment and skills shortages with the official launch of TalentBridge Namibia, a joint vocational training initiative linking Namibia and Germany. The programme was officially launched in Windhoek, bringing together government, industry leaders and international partners in a bold effort to bridge the gap between training and employment. The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, Jessica Hauuanga, said the initiative directly responds to one of Namibia's most persistent challenges, youth unemployment. She described TalentBridge as a practical solution aligned with national development priorities and Namibia's drive to become a competitive investment destination. "The persistence of high unemployment, particularly among our young people, alongside growing markets or marketed demands for skilled labour, our government's message has been clear. We must strengthen our collective efforts to overcome these challenges, not only to improve the livelihoods of our people, but also to enhance Namibians' competitiveness on the global stage." Chairperson of TalentBridge and President of the Berlin Chamber, Sebastian Stietzel, said the project responds to shared challenges facing Namibia and Germany. He explained that the programme will deliver German-standard vocational training in Namibia, combining theory with workplace-based learning, while preparing participants linguistically and culturally. The first intake is this year, with a focus on industrial electricians, hospitality professionals, wholesalers, and retail specialists. Up to one hundred trainees will be enrolled in the first cohort, and plans are to scale up the programme to thousands in the coming years. "These three occupations are those with the highest amount on both sides, which is industrial electrician, with a huge variety of options to get a job in the service as a service technician, in manufacturing or even in crafts." The director of technical and vocational education and training, Dalia Mwiya, said the programme aligns with Namibia's apprenticeship framework and internationally recognised standards. "So the TalentBridge Project will offer significant strategic value through internationally recognised qualifications combined with language and cultural preparations to facilitate successful labour market integrations." The Ministry has pledged institutional support through the Namibia Training Authority and the Namibia Qualifications Authority to ensure quality and sustainability. As applications officially open, young Namibians are encouraged to seize the opportunity, one that promises skills, mobility, and access to global labour markets.