Staff Reporter
THE Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA), the #BeFree Movement under the One Economy Foundation, and the Khomas Regional Council recently hosted a three-day “Future-Ready” information session and career guidance event which attracted thousands of learners from schools in the Khomas and Hardap regions.
Exactly 5,300 learners from 36 schools gathered at the Sam Nujoma Stadium for the event, which was aimed at equipping Namibian youth with the information, tools, and inspiration needed to make informed decisions about their futures.
Participants were welcomed by Shaalukeni John Moonde, the chairperson of the Khomas Regional Council, who said that the initiative was born in response to the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture’s concerns over the lack of structured career guidance in schools and its impact on youth unemployment.
Photos: BeFree Youth
When the Khomas Regional Education Director, Paulus Nghikembua, addressed the event, he emphasised the significance of collaboration in creating opportunities for young people. He said that the event was meant to “captivate the minds and inspire the dreams of learners,” guiding them to make informed career decisions.
The Education Ministry’s Executive Director, Sanet Steenkamp, had her keynote address delivered on her behalf by the Ministry’s Deputy Executive Director, Edda Bohn.
She said: “Every young Namibian, irrespective of background or geographical location, deserves a compass to navigate their future. Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions in your life. It should align with your passion, talents, and the needs of our nation.”
In her turn, the NQA Deputy CEO, Harmoni Beukes, touched on the importance of choosing accredited programmes to secure globally recognised qualifications and long-term career security.
In her closing address at the opening ceremony, One Economy Foundation’s CEO, Pauline Thomas Kahupi, reinforced the importance of reliable information in shaping future-ready decisions.
“Empowering young people with credible information is what these three days are all about. This event is a shining example of what can be achieved when like-minded institutions unite to empower the next generation,” she said.
Throughout the three-day event, learners participated in engaging sessions at the “Speakers’ Hall,” where professionals across various sectors shared insights into career opportunities, personal journeys, and practical guidance.
