KEETMANSHOOP, Namibia – Young people from the ||Kharas Region have voiced their desire for the government to include them in the development of programs aimed at addressing youth unemployment.

According to a news release by the Namibian Press Agency, a public hearing conducted by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Human Resources and Community Development.

During the hearing held in Keetmanshoop on Tuesday, participants shared their views on youth unemployment. Rodler Gertze emphasized the importance of involving young people in program development, stating that they are aware of the strategies needed to address the issue effectively. He also highlighted the need to invest in sports and talent development as potential income sources for youth.

Laurentius Roos called for government regulation of companies, especially private ones, to ensure that they provide in-service training rather than demanding years of experience from young job seekers. He stressed the importance of on-the-job training opportunities.

Mohamed Frederick suggested a change in the education system to focus on technical education and entrepreneurship, aiming to produce employers rather than just employees. He emphasized the need to develop skills and talents from an early age.

Fabianus Sonn proposed that vocational training centers admit individuals who have not completed Grade 10 or Grade 12. He explained that some people, who grew up in child-headed households, had to leave school early to care for siblings. Allowing them to access vocational training would enable them to improve their living standards through education.

The participants also called for increased government investment in agriculture and sports, as well as improved support programs for entrepreneurs to ensure they have the necessary resources for success.