ONGWEDIVA – Oshana governor Elia Irimari has rallied the youth behind the N$100 million green hydrogen scholarships, saying with energy transition imminent, they must become skilled in green energy resources.
“Green hydrogen, which is derived from renewable sources like wind and solar power has emerged as a promising solution to this challenge. It has the potential to revolutionise our energy systems, reduce carbon emissions and create new economic opportunities,” Irimari said at a workshop on the green hydrogen scholarship programme.
The scholarship is known as the Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2).
“This scholarship will provide financial assistance to students pursuing studies in disciplines related to green hydrogen technology. We believe that by investing in the education and training of these young minds, we can foster innovation, drive research and ultimately accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen technologies. Together, we can create a world where green hydrogen plays a vital role in meeting our energy needs while preserving our environment for future generations,” said Irimari.
Last December, the Y4H2 granted 64 master’s degree scholarships and 29 Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships to young people countrywide.
According to green hydrogen expert Shimweefeleni Hamutwe, Namibia has a world class renewable energy potential and abundant wind and sun resources. Namibia is an excellent location to be a globally competitive producer of green hydrogen and its derivatives, Hamutwe said.
“The scholarship calls for those who want to do masters’ degrees in applied science, renewable energy, logistics and supply chain management. Even those with TVET certificates level three, four and five are encouraged to apply,” Hamutwe pleaded with potential applicants.
The aim of the workshop is to ensure that the call for the scholarship reaches out to as many young people as possible.
“The Y4H2 scholarship programme will facilitate capacity building for the emerging green hydrogen industry to avail more opportunities for employment of youth in the country. We want the youth to become experts in this field,” said Hamutwe.