The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) held a public session in Katima Mulilo this week to discuss the National Policy for Qualification Standards, with stakeholders urging stronger oversight of training institutions and clearer pathways from education to employment.
Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula told attendees that the region still faces high youth unemployment, skills shortages, and limited access to some educational opportunities. She said those challenges demand coordinated action to equip residents with the competencies needed for a competitive, modern economy.
“This policy provided a critical framework for ensuring that qualifications offered in Namibia remain relevant, credible, and responsive to the needs of industries and communities; it strengthens confidence in our qualification system while promoting quality assurance, continuous improvement and greater recognition of training outcomes,” Kabula said.
The concerns raised at the session focused on accreditation, institutional infrastructure, and the gap between graduation and employment. Participants asked the NQA to work with other bodies to address institutions that do not meet required standards.
Muzani Muzani, president of the National African Students Association (NASA), called for more proactive inspections. “Moving forward, NQA needs to visit every institution in Namibia at the beginning of the year and before the year ends to determine the environment meets the requirements,” he said.
Apollo Munambwa, chairperson of NASA Zambezi, questioned experience requirements for some positions. He said mandating three to four years of work experience for recent graduates leaves unclear where learners are expected to obtain that experience and asked the NQA to clarify how the policy addresses the issue.
A recent UNAM graduate, Mungomba Simazina, warned that the education sector itself contributes heavily to unemployment. “When you go into communities, you will find that 60% of the unemployed are from the education sector,” he said, arguing for measures to better regulate training providers and align output with labour-market needs.
Joseph Amunyela, head of qualifications at the NQA, urged stakeholders to take part in consultative processes. He said inputs from regions and sectors are essential to ensure qualifications address local needs and asked institutions to engage the ministry and NQA in a timely manner during policy and qualification development.
The session in Katima Mulilo is part of the NQA’s national consultations on implementing the policy and strengthening quality assurance across Namibia’s training and education system.