Although government puts a high premium on education as evidence by regular increases in its financial contribution to the education sector, including the support given to tertiary education institutions, there is a need to improve internal efficiency and quality of outcomes in the sector to unleash market-based skills and advance
human resources development.
This was said by Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amathila, who officiated at the 11th International University of
Management (IUM) graduation ceremony on Friday where 1 162 degree and higher diploma students graduated on Friday. Successive labour force surveys, she noted, have shown that high levels of unemployment are correlated with low levels of educational attainment and a scarcity of vocational skills. Kuugongelwa- Amathila said this constraint is further compounded by low enrolment rates at tertiary and vocational training institutions, as well as poor outcomes at secondary school level.
She said in this regard private higher education institutions, such as the IUM, can play a complementary role to the
contribution made by public institutions. The IUM has been commended for meeting the rising demand for tertiary
education opportunities in an increasingly diverse society and economy, thereby complimenting the public education
sector. The prime minister said stronger public-private partnerships in higher education would contribute to broadening opportunities and addressing some of the social development challenges the country faces.
“This continuous reform requires us to embrace a concept of nationhood that is inclusive; a willingness to work together; to hold prejudice and impatience in abeyance; to celebrate our shared destiny; and to acknowledge that education [is empowering],” she noted.
To the graduates, she expressed the hope that their academic achievements would prove to be their own instruments
of transformation into what they hope and aspire to become. She said obtaining knowledge and skills is an important
stepping stone in their career development, as it equips them for the occupations they will pursue in future.
However, she cautioned that the certificate, diploma or degree awarded to them does not mean that all doors would
immediately open to them, as it may take a while before new opportunities arise. “But, at least we know that you have been empowered with a quiver of skills and knowledge that will arm you in future. Congratulations, walk tall and be proud of your achievements! As you go out to the world, remember that you carry the hopes and dreams of our nation that has reached the milestone of two-and-a-half decades of our hard-earned democracy,” the prime
minister said.
She added that a lot has been achieved since Independence, but admittedly, great challenges remain. Hence, she urged graduates to help address the challenges facing the country, thus ensuring that the vision of the Namibian people to become a well-developed, prosperous, healthy and confident nation, living in an atmosphere of
interpersonal harmony, peace and political stability, is achieved.