The Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PetroFund) has recently provided partially-funded Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships to 13 deserving students at the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT).
Mbinao Karukirue Tjipanga, a trainee at NIMT’s Southern Campus in Keetmanshoop, expressed her immense gratitude for this support, saying, “I am thrilled to receive this scholarship while studying TVET, as it presents a significant opportunity. The funders believed in my potential, and I am determined to study diligently to become successful in the oil and gas industry.”
Tjipanga is currently focused on the electrical field.
Established in 1993, PetroFund hopes to enhance training in science and information technology through scholarships and by supporting educational institutions. Another trainee, Renton Swartbooi, shared his commitment to his studies, stating that his motivation stems from a promise made to his grandmother to excel. “This is for my granny; she has always supported me, and is like my lifeline. I will ensure I do my best,” he declared.
PetroFund’s CEO Nillian Mulemi noted that these scholarships, totaling N$1 069 900 over the next three years, will assist students pursuing careers in boilermaking, electrical work, and fitting and turning.
“We pledge to cover their accommodation, transport, trade test fees, meal allowances and pocket money, while the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund will handle their tuition fees,” she said.
Mulemi emphasised the significant need for technical skills and qualifications in the rapidly- evolving oil and gas sector.
“That’s why we have partnered with the ǃNamiǂNûs Constituency and Chevron to give young people, especially from our southern regions, the chance to acquire the skills and experience necessary for meaningful involvement in the petroleum industry,” she added.
She stressed the critical pace of growth in the oil and gas sector, and underscored the urgent need to enhance the technical capabilities of as many Namibians as possible, particularly through TVET programmes, in anticipation of the upcoming Final Investment Decision (FID) by sector operators.
PetroFund is currently providing funding for 77 students both domestically and abroad, spanning secondary school, undergraduate and master’s levels.
“This initiative reinforces PetroFund’s commitment to empowering the youth of Namibia with vital technical skills, laying a strong groundwork for advanced training in oil and gas and beyond. Our objective is to equip young Namibians with the means to secure significant employment and contribute to the development, of the country’s dynamic petroleum sector,” she stated.
She urged recipients to fully commit to their studies and training, noting that their success is crucial for both their futures and the future of Namibia’s petroleum industry.