Windhoek:More than 5,000 young Namibians have benefited from practical education in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) offered by the Mindsinaction STEAM Centre since its establishment in 2018. The centre, founded by Ndaudika Mulundileni and Andreas Leonard, provides hands-on learning opportunities in various fields such as robotics, coding, electronics, 3D printing, and innovation.
According to NAMPA, Nedbank Namibia has supported the centre by contributing N$59,850 towards acquiring a multifunctional colour copier. This equipment will enhance the centre's ability to produce educational materials, assessments, training resources, and certificates more efficiently, thereby reducing operational costs and allowing more resources to be directed towards learner development.
Additionally, the centre has offered internship opportunities to over 100 university students, providing them with practical experience and exposure to careers in technology, engineering, and innovation. Nedbank Namibia's Head of Marketing and Communications, Janet Kapenda, emphasized the importance of providing young people with opportunities to apply their knowledge, solve real-world problems, and develop critical thinking and innovation skills. Kapenda highlighted that Mindsinaction is creating these opportunities and expressed pride in supporting an organization that is shaping Namibia's future innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers.
Kapenda further noted that investing in practical skills development is crucial for building a workforce that can compete in an increasingly digital and innovation-driven economy. She stated that partnerships like this demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when organizations collaborate to expand opportunities for young people and equip them with skills relevant to the future world of work.
Initially, the Mindsinaction STEAM Centre operated as a mobile programme serving schools in Windhoek and Walvis Bay before expanding into educational boot camps and collaborative programmes reaching learners across Namibia.