Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will receive training in critical digital skills as well as tools to successfully compete in the global economy.
This is possible through a strategic partnership between the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Namibian College of Open Learning (Namcol) and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) which last week established boot camps to train the budding entrepreneurs.
The regional digital boot camps are expected to introduce and improve computer skills among MSMEs and promote digitisation as a key enabler for business growth.
“An integral aspect of any business’ success lies in its ability to leverage digitisation to streamline processes, improve customer experiences, reduce costs and increase overall efficiency. The implementation of cloud-based accounting and payroll systems is one such example of how digitisation can transform business operations,” said Dino Ballotti, the executive director of MSME development, innovation and acceleration at NIPDB.
Ballotti said the vision is to ensure that every MSME in Namibia has an opportunity to capitalise on the transformative power of digital technology and this initiative underscores the three organisations’ shared commitment to fostering a climate of technological innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
“The primary goal of these boot camps is to assist entrepreneurs in building strong and successful businesses through technology transfer and innovation. It is our belief that entrepreneurship, technology and innovation are key drivers for the growth and expansion of businesses, enabling them to reach new heights and new markets. We keep talking of the target market being the globe. This is how we do it,” said Ballotti at the launch.
The boot camps are funded by KAS and will be conducted through hands-on training sessions at computer-based learning centres. The events are scheduled to run from 24 to 28 July 2023 in Ongwediva, then from 21 to 25 August in Rundu and from 25 to 29 September 2023 in Otjiwarongo.
As a partner, outgoing Namcol CEO Heroldt Murangi said the initiative will make a significant difference in the lives of many business-minded young Namibians.
“I believe this initiative will also benefit some of our students who are entrepreneurs. We are sitting with a student population of around 35 000 across the country, and the majority of these people do not have degrees. These are people who have started their own businesses to make a living and I think it’s time we skill them using technology for them to make a difference in their lives and also to make a difference within the communities they operate in,” said Murangi.
Natalie Russmann, KAS resident representative, said the world is changing hence the need to cultivate a vibrant, healthy and competitive business ecosystem.
“MSMEs plays a crucial role in innovation and especially in job creation. And I believe there’s still a huge potential that needs to be unlocked. They remain the engine of economic growth, as MSMEs might become the backbone of the economy,” she said at the event.