Auleria Wakudumo
MTC has officially kicked off its latest round of the MTC 4 Life programme, with 40 successful candidates embarking on intensive hands-on business training.
The training is aimed at equipping the youth with practical skills for self-employment.
The three-week course covers a wide range of trades, including upholstery, hairdressing and styling, barbering, carpentry, welding, electricity and solar installation as well as brick manufacturing. Training is underway in Ondangwa, Katima Mulilo, Swakopmund and Windhoek.
MTC spokesperson Erasmus Nekundi said this cohort was selected following a rigorous five-month national process, which included a call for applications, shortlisting of over 250 candidates, interviews and the recruitment of qualified trainers.
“We are now pleased that training has started with the 40 successful trainees. Capital investments in the programme since its inception stand at N$3.5 million,” said Nekundi.
He noted that with the current intake, the total number of Namibian youths trained and empowered through the initiative will rise to 131.
“The initiative continues to transfer essential business and practical skills to participants, equipping them to establish or grow their small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” Nekundi added.
Among the trainees is Gervasius Isaak, a 28-year-old from Omitara in the Omaheke region.
He is undergoing training in brick manufacturing. Isaak expressed gratitude for the opportunity, urging fellow youth to seize such chances to upskill themselves.
“Being part of the MTC 4 Life programme has truly transformed how I see myself and my future. I feel empowered – not just with knowledge and skills, but with a sense of purpose and direction,” Isaak said.
He noted that the mentorship and support provided have taught him to face challenges with a positive mindset and turn obstacles into opportunities.
“I now feel I have a voice, vision and the ability to make meaningful contributions to my community. MTC 4 Life has not only impacted my life but it has also helped me believe in my ability to impact the world around me,” he added.
The annual MTC 4 Life programme has become a flagship corporate social investment initiative, drawing interest from hundreds of young Namibians eager to upskill and become self-reliant.
This year alone, over 250 expressions of interest were received from four regions – Zambezi, Erongo, Hardap and Omaheke, underscoring the continued need for the programme.
MTC covers all training-related costs.
Upon completion, each trainee will receive a start-up toolkit and a N$5 000 capital injection to launch their micro-businesses.
“This is to empower them to become self-employed and earn a sustainable living. To ensure long-term success, MTC has partnered with Small and Medium Entreprises Compete, which will monitor business growth and provide expert guidance,” Nekundi stated.
– wakudumoauleria@gmail.com