Namibia's first artificial intelligence institution, NOVA Institution of Artificial Intelligence, is positioning itself to help address the growing demand for future-ready AI technicians in Africa.

The institution is preparing young people with practical application, product development, innovation and entrepreneurship to capitalise on the digital economy.

NOVA was established in response to the gap between the number of graduates produced in Africa and the limited employment opportunities available to them.

Its Executive Director, Immanuel Antonius, said Africa produces millions of graduates each year, but a significant number struggle to enter the formal job market.

Antonius said artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the future of work.

The institution offers three core programmes: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Robotics and Automation, and 3D Modelling and Fabrication.

Antonius says NOVA wants to move away from an education model that focuses mainly on studying to pass examinations.

Instead, students will be encouraged to learn through practical projects, develop solutions to real-world challenges and showcase their innovations at national exhibitions.

Through its incubation process, the institution also aims to help students test, refine and scale their products, potentially turning innovative ideas into viable businesses and employment opportunities.