A lecturer in project management at the University of Namibia, Joshua Mario, has commended President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's decision to place the oil and gas industry directly under the Presidency.

He believes this is an important move that will help develop the industry.

According to Mario, it shows the government's dedication to growing the sector and creating strong policies for its success.

Mario talked about the oil and gas sector, reducing agricultural imports, and subsidising tertiary education on the nbc's parliamentary program 'Inside the Chambers'.

Mario insists Namibia's oil and gas discoveries are real, even though some appear to think of this only from a stance of research.

By placing the sector directly under the President's office, Mario believes this will allow the country to create strong policies and rules to help the sector grow.

"Although it may also come with cons, maybe too much centralised power and monitoring may cause some investors to be uncomfortable, but I think for the benefits of it being a new sector, it can start there, then afterwards we can review and see where it can be better placed in the future."

The President also announced a goal to reduce agricultural imports by 80%.

Mario suggests this as a sound plan, but cautions against foreseeable challenges.

While this year has seen some good rains, he says recent droughts have proven just how dependent the country's agriculture is on favourable weather.

Mario further suggests reducing imports to help support local farmers, adding that the Agricultural Marketing and Trade Agency (AMTA) could play a significant role in helping local produce meet the necessary standards.

"With this new decision, there must come good support; farmers must be supported and be given the opportunity and technical skills to be able to also go into the area that is less stepped, like producing certain types of crops or veggies that may not be very popular in the country. So, if we are doing that, that means we must also boost the locals to be able to have the rightful skills and also to plan for the future."

Mario also commented on the President's plan to make tertiary education fully free starting in 2026.

While he thinks this is a great move to help more people access higher education, he reminded everyone that "nothing is truly free."

Mario explained that providing free education will require funding, and this could affect other areas of the economy.

He used the idea of "opportunity cost", meaning that money spent on one thing might mean less money available for something else.

Mario advises the government to consult with experts and important groups to make sure the plan is sustainable and successful.