RUNDU – Deputy youth minister Emma Kantema-Gaomas has commended Rundu-based vocational training institution Ngato VTC for equipping the youth with various technical skills.
The centre held its first-ever graduation ceremony last Friday. During the ceremony, over 80 artisans got their certificates in metal fabrication, electrical general and office administration as well occupational health and safety.
The centre also provides training for persons with disability, of whom 14 got their certificates in hospitality and baking short courses.
Although the centre started training with their first intake in 2013, they have never organised a graduation ceremony. In the past, when trainees finished training, they were just given their certificates. “Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed,” Kantema-Gaomas said in a speech read on her behalf. “To the graduates, today marks a significant milestone in your lives. Your hard work, perseverance and dedication have led you to this moment of celebration. As you step into this new chapter of your journey, remember that the skills and knowledge you have acquired will serve as powerful tools in shaping your future,” she said.
“By equipping our youth with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields, we are not only empowering them to achieve their dreams, but also contributing to the fight against unemployment in Namibia. The youth are the future of our nation, and it is crucial that we invest in their development, and provide them with opportunities for growth and success,’’ she noted.
Kantema-Gaomas said the graduation ceremony aligns perfectly with the goals and objectives of the national youth policy, which aims to empower young people to reach their full potential and actively participate in the socio-economic development of the country. “By celebrating the achievements of our graduates today, we are reaffirming our commitment to supporting and nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovator, and change-makers. I encourage you to continue striving for excellence, to never stop learning, and to always embrace new opportunities that come your way,’’ she said.
Established by John Fernando, Ngato VTC is in Rundu’s Kehemu location.
“Your commitment to the development and empowerment of our youth is truly commendable, and I applaud your efforts in creating opportunities for growth and success,’’ she said.
Ngato VTC has two centres in Rundu, and another at Okongo in the Ohangwena region.
It first started out as a construction company, which accommodated many vocational training interns in Rundu.
“I used to receive a lot of trainees who would come for attachments and that is when the idea of the VTC came in. We started in 2012, and that is when we also went for marketing in the north to attract the attention of people from there to come and join our centre so we train them. There, we got about 120 youth who came to get training as from 2013,’’ said Fernando.
Today, Ngato offers Namibia Training Authority and Namibia Qualifications Authority-recognised programmes.
-jmuyamba@nepc.com.na