Windhoek:The Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) has emphasized the necessity for education and training programs to be more closely aligned with the demands of the labour market. This call aims to address existing skills gaps and enhance employment opportunities within Namibia.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the issue was a focal point during a public discussion on national skills and employment. The event, organized by EAN in collaboration with the Hanns Seidel Foundation, Bank Windhoek, and First National Bank, was held in Windhoek. It gathered government officials, private sector representatives, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to discuss skills requirements across essential economic sectors and explore practical solutions to unemployment and skills mismatches.

Sylvester Mbangu, Deputy Executive Director for Macroeconomic Planning at the National Planning Commission, stressed the importance of aligning skills development with the country's socio-economic needs. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of the education system to ensure skills are developed in alignment with the actual requirements of various sectors.

Muine Samahiya, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Namibia, suggested integrating curricula with labour-market needs, making workplace attachments compulsory, and enhancing support for graduates entering the workforce. He also advocated for mandatory digital literacy and the introduction of project management and entrepreneurship modules in educational programs.

Additionally, Tuyakula Shifidi, Chief Statistician at the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations, mentioned that the ministry is working on initiatives to improve labour-market information and skills planning, aiming to align training curricula with market demands and bolster skills development, career guidance, and employment services.

EAN noted that the outcomes of this discussion would play a critical role in shaping future policy engagement, program development, and stakeholder collaboration.