Windhoek:The Petroleum Training and Education Fund (Petrofund) and Saipem, an international leader in energy and infrastructure, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance skills and build capacity in Namibia's upstream oil and gas sector.According to Namibia Press Agency, the MoU, signed on Tuesday in Windhoek, sets up a comprehensive framework for collaboration that aims to facilitate knowledge transfer and create career opportunities for Namibians in the country's growing energy sector.Petrofund spokesperson Shoki Kandjimi stated in a media release that the partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing Namibia's oil and gas industry by strengthening the skills and competencies needed for sustainable long-term development. The MoU outlines initiatives such as on-the-job training, internships, scholarships, and support for educational institutions, with a focus on providing practical industry experience to young Namibian professionals and graduates.The agreement also in cludes mentoring, technical knowledge sharing, curriculum development, and partnerships with educational and training institutions. Kandjimi highlighted that by merging Petrofund's development mandate with Saipem's global expertise, the collaboration aims to establish a sustainable talent pipeline to support the country's rapidly expanding energy sector.For Saipem, the partnership presents an opportunity to invest in local talent, enhancing workforce development and knowledge transfer. The initiative aligns with the company's commitment to fostering local content and ensuring the sustainable development of the communities where it operates.The MoU marks a continuation of the ongoing collaboration between Saipem and Namibian stakeholders, focusing on increasing local involvement, enhancing professional skills, and supporting Namibia's objective of maximizing the long-term benefits from its upstream oil and gas sector.