The Ohlthaver & List Group (O&L) has welcomed 13 new graduates into its 2025 Emerging Talent programme, reinforcing the group’s commitment to developing the country’s future workforce and addressing the critical challenges of youth unemployment, which is estimated at over 37%.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, the youth unemployment rate is higher among those in the 15-to-19 age group and the 20-to-24-year-old categories, which is estimated at a staggering 54%.
The unemployment rate is lower among people aged 55 to 59, at 19.4%, and higher among pensioners (those aged 60 and older).
The diverse cohort of recent graduates has been strategically placed across various O&L Operating Companies in specialised roles spanning business development , culinary arts, engineering, human resources, finance and procurement – areas where Namibia faces skills shortages.
This year’s intake demonstrates the breadth of opportunities available within the O&L portfolio and the group’s dedication to nurturing talent across multiple industries.
“Youth unemployment in Namibia remains a significant challenge, with rates considerably higher than the overall unemployment figures. We recognise that young, educated Namibians face a critical mismatch between their skills and labour market demands. The most difficult period for any graduate is securing that first opportunity – no matter how qualified they are, everyone seeks job experience, yet few companies are prepared to offer that crucial first step into the working world,” said Terence Makari, O&L’s chief human capital officer.
Makari emphasised O&L’s role in breaking this cycle of unemployment in Namibia.
Since its inception, 123 young Namibians have joined O&L through this programme, with many advancing to senior positions within the group. The 12-month programme equips participants with the skills and experience needed to excel either within O&L or in the broader Namibian economy.
“As Namibia’s largest private employer, we understand our responsibility to provide meaningful opportunities for young professionals. Through our Emerging Talent programme, we offer jobs and create pathways for future leaders while addressing the skills shortage in our economy,” he said.
He added that addressing youth unemployment requires investment in education, skills development and entrepreneurship, as well as collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society.
“Through initiatives like our Emerging Talent programme, we’ r e demonstrating how the private sector can play a meaningful role in developing the next generation of leaders and contributing to Namibia’s economic growth,” he concluded.
The programme, which evolved from the Talent Attraction Programme launched in 2008, was rebranded in 2020 to align with O&L’s talent philosophy – the belief that everyone possesses unique talents that can be developed. The programme provides new graduates with experiential exposure across various industries within the O&L portfolio, offering hands-on opportunities that establish a solid foundation in their respective fields.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na