More than 5 000 young Namibians gain future-ready skills

**Staff Writer **

As Namibia looks to equip its youth with the skills needed for an increasingly technology-driven future, more than 5 000 young people have already gained exposure to practical science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics education through the MindsInAction STEAM Centre.

Founded in 2018 by Ndaudika Mulundileni and Andreas Leonard, the centre has become a growing force in skills development, providing hands-on learning opportunities in robotics, coding, electronics, 3D printing and innovation.

What began as a mobile programme serving schools in Windhoek and Walvis Bay has expanded into educational boot camps and collaborative programmes reaching learners across Namibia.

Through its programmes and strategic partnerships, MindsInAction STEAM Centre has impacted more than 5 000 young Namibians and provided internship opportunities to over 100 university students, equipping them with practical experience and exposure to careers in technology, engineering and innovation.

By working closely with schools, tertiary institutions and industry partners, the centre continues to expand access to learners from diverse backgrounds while supporting the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).

As demand for digital, technical and innovation-focused skills continues to grow, organisations such as MindsInAction are helping to bridge the gap between education and workforce readiness, creating pathways to future employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young Namibians.

To support the centre’s expanding reach and programme delivery, Nedbank Namibia has contributed N$59 850 towards the acquisition of a multifunctional colour copier.

The equipment will enable the centre to produce educational materials, assessments, training resources and certificates more efficiently, reducing operational costs and allowing more resources to be directed towards learner development.

While the contribution addresses a practical operational need, its broader significance lies in strengthening an organisation that is actively preparing Namibia’s future innovators, creators and problem-solvers.

Nedbank Namibia head of marketing and communications, Janet Kapenda, said: “Young people need more than academic knowledge to thrive in today’s world. They need opportunities to apply their learning, solve real-world problems and develop critical thinking and innovation skills. Mindsinaction is creating these opportunities, and we are proud to support an organisation that is helping shape Namibia’s future innovators, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers.”

Kapenda added that investing in practical skills development is essential to building a workforce that can compete in an increasingly digital and innovation-driven economy.