Introduced in 2018, New Era Publication Corporation’s Traineeship Programme has produced its first group of graduates over the last year.
The programme provides practical working experience to unemployed graduates, develops their skills and helps them become employable.
Seven graduates completed the Traineeship Programme and secured jobs at New Era Publication Corporation.
“Our mission as NEPC is to provide accessible high-quality information services based on sound business principles. For us to achieve that, we need a certain level of culture, values and improved goals. Our traineeship programme helps us to mould new entrants in that strategic direction,” NEPC’s head of human capital Olivia Kangandjela said.
The traineeship programme is structured to incorporate skills training whilst giving business operations exposure in the various areas within NEPC structures.
The programme offers graduates the opportunity to learn on the job and contribute to the corporation’s business results while allowing them to sharpen their skills and develop professionally.
On-the-job-training is offered over 12 months to graduates from institutions of higher learning, which Namibia Qualification Authority accredits. The trainees work in the department of areas of interest under the supervision of a designated staff member.
Here is what the seven graduates had to say about their experiences:
Aletta Shikololo - Junior reporter
Employment date: 01/11/2020
She holds a Bachelor of English from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).
“New Era’s culture of giving feedback helped me grow as a journalist. During the first half of my training, the reporting and writing of news articles were all new to me, and I struggled; however, the New Era editorial team has been incredibly supportive in helping me formulate vital objective, factual and credible stories.”
“During the training programme, I learned to develop a ‘news sense’. I came to understand all the small, crucial and necessary steps it takes to write a story. It was an exciting and challenging experience. This experience has changed my career ambitions and shaped me into a much stronger individual and reliable and hardworking journalist.”
Maihapa Ndjavera - Junior business reporter
Employment date: 01/11/2020
He holds a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) from the University of Namibia.
“I am honoured that I got the opportunity to learn and support from the team by applying my communication, critical thinking and interpersonal skills. As an emerging professional, my focus is to utilise my strengths in my current job to make a positive impact in the organisation as a whole. I enjoy gathering, organising and analysing information, working in groups, and contributing to project strategies. I believe these skills will be beneficial for my long-term investment.”
Paheja Siririka - Junior reporter
Employment date: 01/04/2020
He holds a certificate in dispute resolution from the University of Namibia (Unam), a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, Journalism and Political Science from Osmania University, an honours degree in Communication from the Namibia University of Science and Technology, and is currently pursuing a Masters of Journalism and Media Technology at the same institution.
“I have gained a lot of experience from being in the field and interviewing diverse communities on various matters that affect the masses. The development programme is an audition you need to demonstrate that you are worth the company’s time and resources. This means coming up with story ideas. I have learned to contribute in several bits, including politics, sports, health, entertainment, youth and business/economics – you cannot be confined to one bit, and that’s the biggest lesson I have erudite.”
Maurice Kambukwe - Junior sports reporter
Employment date: 01/03/2021
Holds a Diploma in Sports Journalism from the Institute of Commercial Management.
“Since joining the corporation, I’ve learned many things, such as how to write columns and how to conduct interviews properly. Another area where I have improved is time management and working with speed to meet deadlines. At the sports desk, we are serious about research and doing in-depth stories, which has also helped me improve my analytical and research skills. I believe research and in-depth investigations are key for the growth of any journalist,” he said.
“I have grown personally since leaving university. I was a timid person at the university and I lacked confidence, but since arriving at New Era as a trainee, I have become more confident and self-driven.”
Helaria Werner - Assistant human capital practitioner
Employment date: 01/04/2020
She holds a Bachelor Honours Degree in Human Resources Management from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).
“The training taught me the passion for people, as they are the valuable human capital of the Corporation. Through that, I have learned how to deal with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I have acquired skills in general human capital administration functions and to be a resourceful person.”
Himeezembi Desmond Katjiuanjo - Assistant accountant: Accounts receivable
Employment date: 01/03/2020
Holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) majoring in Banking and Finance from the University of Namibia (Unam).
“I learned how to invoice on the accounting system, reconcile accounts, match amounts, and send out statements during my training period. The knowledge I gained so far is that patience and hard work go hand-in-hand. You have to work hard to achieve your goals. I aim to thrive as an NEPC employee.”
Victoria Kaapanda - Junior reporter
Employment date: 13/07/2020
She holds a Diploma in Sound Engineering from the College of Arts.
“Journalism is the most glamorous field, although it involves time, effort, dedication and creativity. It was incredible to learn about what the world of journalism entails. Still, the most valuable thing I have learned despite all of the industry’s challenges is that I am now, without a doubt, ready to work independently.”