Hon. Sanet L. Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, addressed key stakeholders at the National Vocational Education Workshop held in Otjiwarongo on 16-17 September 2025. She highlighted the ministry’s commitment to educational access, noting over 2,030 schools and a state-owned TVET centre in each region by 2025. The workshop underscores the ministry’s inclusive approach, aligning with the 8th Administration’s focus on reforming vocational education through competency-based training, apprenticeship reintroduction, e-learning strategies, and industry collaboration.
Minister Steenkamp outlined strategic priorities under NDP 6, including transforming VTCs into technical colleges and strengthening pre-vocational and vocational education linkages to respond to emerging sectors like oil and gas and green hydrogen. She stressed the importance of collaboration among schools, TVET centres, and universities to ensure seamless pathways for learners. The minister called on participants to develop actionable plans that align vocational training with regional economic opportunities while acknowledging ongoing challenges such as outdated equipment and limited access.
The ministry’s vision aims to create a modernized, demand-driven TVET sector, contributing to holistic youth development and national economic growth. The workshop is expected to foster collective dialogue and chart a progressive course for vocational education in Namibia.
This initiative reflects President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s portfolio consolidation, bringing education, innovation, youth, sports, arts, and culture under one ministry to streamline efforts and amplify impact.
The Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to all stakeholders and wishing fruitful deliberations for Namibia’s vocational education future.
