The M&Z Motors Group on Tuesday joined the Social Security Commission (SSC) in making valuable donations to the Windhoek Vocational Training College (WVTC) to ensure trainees are equipped with the necessary skills required by Namibian industries.
While the SSC contributed welding and boiler making equipment to the WVTC’s welding programme, M&Z provided two vehicles for trainees to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
The donations are expected to enable trainees to gain a robust and comprehensive understanding of automotive systems.
“Today, we are witnessing a significant investment in the future of our young people and the socio-economic growth of our nation. Allow me at the outset to commend Metje & Ziegler (M$Z) Ltd for their generous donation of two vehicles to the Windhoek Vocational Training College that will enhance training in the Automotive Mechatronics Workshop. These vehicles will provide trainees with hands-on, practical experience that aligns with industry standards and prepares them for real-world challenges,” said Khomas governor Sam Nujoma as the keynote speaker at the event.
He added that the donations strengthen the technical capabilities of the WVTC, enabling trainees to develop skills vital for Namibia’s industrial and manufacturing growth.
“This donation demonstrates your commitment as a true corporate citizenship to contribute to education and skills development as well as the overall educational vision for a better Namibia,” said Nujoma.
WVTC offers national certificates in both automotive engineering as well as automotive mechatronics.
The governor elaborated that automotive mechatronics is a rapidly evolving field, where new technologies and practices constantly emerge.
With dedicated training vehicles and modern welding equipment, WVTC is able to align with industry standards, ensuring trainees graduate with skills immediately relevant to the domestic labour market.
“Namibia continues to face the challenge of high youth unemployment. By providing practical, industry-relevant training, WVTC is equipping young Namibians with employable skills. These donations directly enhance the employability of our youth, empowering them to contribute to Namibia’s automotive sector, industrial base and economy at large,” said Nujoma.
Vocational education is a cornerstone of national development.
Namibia’s Sixth Development Plan (NDP6) emphasises skills development as the driver of industrialisation, employment creation and economic growth.
NDP6 also places strong emphasis on human capital development, youth empowerment as well as the promotion of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as strategic enablers for sustainable development.
“The donations we are celebrating today directly support this national agenda by ensuring that our young people are equipped with the tools, skills and confidence to take their rightful place in Namibia’s economy,” said Nujoma.
Also speaking at the event, M&Z Motors Group managing director Ekko Eisenberg said the donation is part and parcel of addressing a serious lack of skills in the industry.
He encouraged WVTC students to take their studies seriously and make a meaningful career out of it.
“Looking at the payment structure in our company then, you can see the people working with their hands are the best paid. To be the best in the fast-changing vehicle industry means you must keep up with the latest trends and technology,” he stated.
Noting that a fast-evolving world is producing fewer artisans crucial for national economic development, Eisenberg said “education will contribute to our economy to reduce unemployment and develop this country that we love so much”.