Kandjii Murangi – TVET Central To The Economy

TVET Central To The Economy. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) are increasingly being recognized as a pivotal tool for the economic future of nations. The Minister of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation, Itah Kandjii-Murangi, has highlighted the importance of TVET in shaping the future of Namibia’s youth. Speaking at the inauguration of the NEV Hub PV/Solar Plant in Eenhana, Ohangwena region, she emphasized the critical role TVET plays in economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
The Future Of Youth Lies In TVET
Minister Kandjii-Murangi believes that TVET holds the keys to unlocking the potential of Namibia’s youth. She underscored the need for a focused approach on outcomes, effectiveness, and increased access to resources for TVET. By enhancing the quality and reach of vocational training, the country can better equip its young people with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Inauguration Of The NEV Hub PV/Solar Plant
The minister made her remarks during the inauguration of the NEV Hub PV/Solar Plant at Eenhana. This state-of-the-art facility, which has been fortified with razor mesh fencing and CCTV systems, will see its generation capacity increased from 80 to 110 kilowatts. The plant is a testament to Namibia’s commitment to embracing renewable energy sources and integrating them into the educational infrastructure.
ProTVET Project And Sustainable Economic Development
The ProTVET project, aimed at enhancing technical and vocational education, plays a crucial role in Namibia’s sustainable economic development. Minister Kandjii-Murangi highlighted that the project is aligned with the government’s broader agenda of creating jobs, empowering women and young people, and building a strong, resilient economy. By supporting key elements of the TVET system and increasing industry participation, ProTVET contributes significantly to these goals.
Importance Of TVET For Economic Competitiveness
The TVET sector is not just a peripheral part of the education system but a critical component of Namibia’s future competitiveness. The minister praised the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) for its dedication to addressing the priorities and challenges within the TVET sector. However, she stressed the importance of maintaining momentum and commitment to transforming TVET provision in the country.
Solar Energy And TVET: A Synergy For The Future
Namibia’s abundant sunshine provides an exceptional opportunity for the integration of solar energy into TVET institutions. Minister Kandjii-Murangi pointed out that the installation of photovoltaic solar plants at public vocational training centers (VTCs) is a promising development. Solar energy offers long-term cost savings and reduces the environmental impact, aligning with the government’s goals of sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.
The Role Of VTCs In Sustainable Development
The minister urged VTCs to take full responsibility for the maintenance and protection of these solar installations. She emphasized that these centers should not only utilize the energy produced but also safeguard the infrastructure from destruction, theft, and vandalism. This responsibility is key to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of these renewable energy projects.
German-Namibian Partnership In TVET Development
Thomas Feidieker, the development cooperation counsellor at the German Embassy, highlighted the long-standing partnership between Germany and Namibia in advancing the TVET sector. This collaboration, spanning over 34 years, has significantly contributed to Namibia’s socio-economic development. Through bilateral agreements, Germany has provided approximately N$650 million for technical cooperation in TVET over the last 12 years.
Financial Support For TVET
The German Development Bank, KfW, in partnership with the NTA, is finalizing a project to provide financial support to the TVET sector, with a total commitment of approximately N$260 million by the BMZ. This financial injection is expected to bolster the sector, enabling it to meet the critical skills needs in emerging industries and serve as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialization.
The Impact Of Solar/PV Plants On Vocational Training
The planning, design, and installation of grid-tied solar/PV plants at four public vocational training centers—Nakayale, Eenhana, Valombola, and Gobabis—was a significant milestone in the second phase of ProTVET. This initiative not only addresses the critical skills needed in the renewable energy sector but also strengthens the TVET system’s role in driving Namibia’s economic development.
Conclusion
TVET is central to Namibia’s economic future, providing the skills and training necessary for the country’s youth to thrive in a competitive global market. The initiatives highlighted by Minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi, including the ProTVET project and the integration of solar energy into TVET institutions, demonstrate the government’s commitment to sustainable development and job creation. By focusing on outcomes, effectiveness, and increased access, Namibia is poised to harness the full potential of its vocational training sector, paving the way for a robust and resilient economy.