Windhoek: The University of Namibia (UNAM) on Monday officially launched the REALTEST project, a research and capacity-building initiative aimed at advancing Namibia's green hydrogen industry through scientific research, safety testing, skills development, and industrial innovation.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Vice President Lucia Witbooi highlighted Namibia's potential to become a leading producer of green hydrogen and ammonia, owing to its rich renewable energy resources. Witbooi emphasized the country's ambition to build an industrial economy and empower Namibians to become the scientists, engineers, and industrial leaders driving this transformation.

UNAM Vice Chancellor Professor Kenneth Matengu stressed the importance of investing in education, research, and specialized skills for sustainable industrialization. He noted that the university has trained researchers in areas such as hydrogen safety and material compatibility, while also expanding capacity in advanced manufacturing and welding engineering.

Acting Director of the Institute for Advanced and Applied Research (IAAR), Professor Thomas Boellinghaus, advocated for developing vertical value chains to create skilled jobs and enhance local economic returns. He asserted that industrialization is effective only when supported by advanced research and science.

In a statement on behalf of the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL), Executive Director Dr. Nelago Indongo announced that the project is funded with N$46.7 million (pound 2.5 million), with an additional N$4.7 million (pound 250,000) for workforce training. Indongo highlighted that the project aims to establish a regulatory framework for the hydrogen industry, enhancing investor confidence and creating employment opportunities for young Namibians.