Turning education access into employable skills to drive Namibia’s economic growth
As Namibia prepares for growth across oil and gas, renewable energy, construction and logistics, it is becoming increasingly important to align education with the demands of the labour market.
While expanded access to tertiary and vocational education creates opportunity, it does not automatically translate into employable skills.
The long-term success of Namibia’s development ambitions will depend on whether training pathways reflect real industry needs, whether vocational careers are positioned as credible first choices, and whether students are supported to complete their studies and transition successfully into work.
Matching training programmes to real industry demand
Free tertiary and vocational education can open doors for more young Namibians, particularly in technical fields where demand is accelerating. However, if these skills do not match the needs of employers, free education will not create more employment or address the growing skills gap.
Sectors such as oil and gas and renewable energy require specific, technically advanced competencies, including welding, electrical work, rigging, instrumentation and engineering. As these industries evolve, training institutions must update their curricula to reflect new technologies and operating standards. This will ensure that, alongside increased enrolments, educational facilities will be well-positioned to deliver economic value by producing graduates who are immediately relevant to the workplace.
Support is critical to improve completion and outcomes
Aligning academic content with industry requirements is important, but it is only part of the picture – it is also essential that students complete their studies.
Many students leave programmes not because they lack ability, but because they lack resources, mentorship and exposure to practical learning environments.
Stronger emphasis on mathematics and science at the school level, combined with ongoing academic guidance and support once learners enter vocational programmes, is critical to improving completion rates.
Even where tuition is free, basic support such as reliable transport, access to meals and the provision of essential tools also plays a decisive role in whether learners can attend consistently and remain engaged and thus complete their studies. When these everyday needs are not met, capable students are more likely to miss classes, struggle to meet practical requirements and ultimately abandon their studies
Technical careers as pathways to long-term growth
While practical support influences whether learners are able to complete their studies, perception still shapes whether many young people consider vocational training at all. Although many technical careers offer stable work, good pay and opportunities to work internationally, the idea that vocational education is a second-best option to university persists.
Artisanal roles are often regarded as less desirable than other professions, rather than as skilled occupations that play a central role in the economy.
In addition, people who begin in technical roles can progress into supervisory, logistics, procurement or management positions, taking practical, on-the-ground knowledge with them. Making these career pathways clearer is essential if vocational training is to be recognised as a credible, long-term choice that supports Namibia’s economic development.
Securing the skills pipeline
Repositioning vocational careers and providing more effective learner support can help to drive greater participation. Still, the supply of essential skills will only improve if employers and industry play a more active role in shaping education outcomes.
They understand current and emerging skills needs and need to participate directly in curriculum design, advisory boards and apprenticeship programmes. Without this involvement, institutions risk training graduates for roles that no longer exist.
At the same time, Namibia must expand participation in technical fields, particularly among women. Modern safety standards and work practices have reduced many traditional barriers, but limited exposure and outdated perceptions persist. Targeted support, visible role models and inclusive training environments will be critical to building a diverse, job-ready workforce.
*Julien Karambua is the country manager of Workforce Staffing Namibia. He provides turnkey employment and project services to the energy, mining, engineering and construction sectors in Namibia.
