The Capricorn Foundation, in partnership with Bank Windhoek, officially launched the 2026/2027 Emerging Bankers Programme on Monday at Capricorn Corner in Windhoek.
The launch marked the onboarding of the second cohort of young Namibians into the programme, which forms part of Bank Windhoek’s Young Talent Development Programme.
Introduced in 2024 with funding from the Capricorn Foundation, the Emerging Bankers Programme creates jobs for promising school leavers, especially from small towns and remote areas lacking access to tertiary education or funding.
It offers workplace exposure, certified training, mentoring and hands-on experience over 18 months.
Building on the inaugural intake’s success, the Capricorn Foundation allocated N$3.24 million for the 2026/2027 18-month programme, supporting 13 Emerging Bankers with employment costs, training and development across Bank Windhoek branches. CEO David Nuyoma said the programme demonstrates the Group’s commitment to people development and inclusive growth.
“At the Capricorn Group, we believe talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. The Emerging Bankers Programme is about opening doors, building confidence and giving young people the support they need to take their first steps into the world of work.
Developing talent is both a strategic priority and a responsibility, because the future of our Group and our industry depend on the people we nurture today,” he said.
The new cohort follows the successful first Emerging Bankers intake, which ended in 2025 after 18 months of training and exposure across Bank Windhoek branches.
The positive outcomes confirmed the programme’s impact, with participants gaining skills and confidence, and many moving into permanent jobs or further skills development.
The programme addresses national youth employment issues.
The 2023 Labour Force Report states Namibia has over one million youth aged 15-34, many of whom are not in work, education or training.
Youth participation in financial services is low, highlighting the need for targeted efforts like the Emerging Bankers Programme.
Capricorn Foundation executive director Marlize Horn said the Foundation is proud to support the initiative to improve access to quality education.
“The Emerging Bankers Programme demonstrates what is possible when organisations invest in young people in a meaningful and structured way.
Through this N$3.24 million investment, we are not only creating access to work experience, but also helping young Namibians build confidence, purpose and a foundation for long-term careers. This is how sustainable change is created,” she said.
The 2026/2027 intake invests in a sustainable talent pipeline for the financial sector, offering opportunities for youth struggling to find formal employment.
Participants will work at nearby Bank Windhoek branches to gain experience and stay connected to their communities.
Bank Windhoek’s managing director James Chapman said investing in young talent strengthens the future skills pipeline.
The programme is nationally implemented, focusing on rural and underserved communities where jobs are scarce.
Extending the opportunity beyond urban areas ensures no talent is overlooked and supports a more inclusive Namibian economy.
-newsroom@nepc.com.na