The Emerging Talent Programme, facilitated by Namibia Dairies and other subsidiaries of Ohlthaver & List (O&L), aims to provide sustained support to young Namibians by offering opportunities for internships, mentorship and the possibility of permanent employment. 

Recently, Namibia Dairies welcomed first and second-year students from the University of Namibia’s (Unam) Food Science and Technology programme for an enlightening tour of its Avis processing and packaging facility. This visit represented a continuation of Namibia Dairies’ commitment to bridging the divide between theoretical education and practical industry experience. The students, who are currently participating in Unam’s newly-updated curriculum module focused on Workplace Attachment Preparation, were given a practical insight into the application of food science principles in a real-world context.

“As a graduate, being placed in a place like Namibia Dairies is a dream come true. I studied food science and technology, and my programme is set in such a way that I’m exposed to the quality department, the entire process of Namibia Dairies, which includes all our products, be it our milk, our yoghurts, and Omaere,” said Leena Haulyondjaba, who was part of the programme.

Haulyondjaba, currently working at Namibia Dairies, informed Youth Corner that the experience provides valuable insights into life post-university, illustrating how to apply academic knowledge in real-world situations, which contributes to both personal and professional development.

“Looking at when I started the programme and where I am now, I have gained so much confidence in myself. I am learning every day to be an independent person, and that is because I have such an amazing team,” she stated.

She emphasised that prospective students enrolled in the programme should seek to gain as much exposure as possible, given the program’s diversity and its emphasis on various fields such as mechanical engineering, finance, and animal science, among others. 

She advised students to remain authentic, fully commit to their efforts, and strive to be the best versions of themselves.

“I think that is what I have done, and I think that is what has gotten me into this programme, and that is what motivates me to continue working hard to be the best version of myself,” she said.

A student enrolled in the programme, Jennifer Areses, stated, “As a student, having this opportunity to engage with the industry not only helps us understand what is expected of us as future employees, but also the role we play in helping to solve problems through innovation.”

This initiative is crucial for preparing the future workforce with the essential knowledge and skills required to succeed in professional settings. She noted that the chance to network and interact with industry professionals fosters greater interest.

“My advice to students would be to help out as much as you can in your departments, gain as much experience and exposure as possible, and this will help you get the recommendations you need to secure your future with the best employers such as Namibia Dairies and O&L,” said the upcoming food scientist.

The revamped curriculum introduced by Unam, which emphasises workplace attachment, reflects the university’s dedication to aligning with industry standards. 

Furthermore, the programme is designed to equip students for internships and their future professional endeavours. Namibia Dairies provides students with the chance to interact with industry professionals, acquire best-practices, and gain valuable insights that will aid in their career success.  Dalinka Alberto, the marketing executive at Namibia Dairies, stated that the organisation recognises the significance of preparing the upcoming generation of professionals to fulfil industry requirements, particularly in the rapidly-evolving sectors of food science and technology.

“At O&L, we believe in investing in our youth to create a prosperous future for Namibia. 

This collaboration with Unam aligns perfectly with our Emerging Talent Programme, where we focus on exposing young talent to the practical aspects of their fields, empowering them with the necessary skills to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application,” stated Alberto.

-psiririka@nepc.com.na