Telecom Namibia plans to invest N$25.7 million as part of a national youth training initiative, expected to benefit 83 youths nationally with skills for roles in the country’s ICT sector.
As part of the first phase of the initiative, the telco has onboarded 35 interns, graduates, and apprentices at an estimated cost of N$10.8 million.
“The Telecom Namibia Training Programme for 2023 tackles youth unemployment and produces scarce skills and knowledge that is urgently needed by the ICT sector, the Namibian economy, and creates a ready-made workforce, given the advent of the 4th Industrial Revolution, Green Hydrogen prospects, and artificial intelligence in terms of what it could mean for business efficiencies and operational efficiencies for public enterprises, such as Telecom Namibia itself,” the telco said.
Phase 1 includes 2 Engineers-in-Training from the University of Namibia (UNAM) and Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST); 2 Engineering Technicians-in-Training from Liaoning University of Technology and NUST; 4 IP/IT Technicians-in-Training from NUST; 15 Apprentices from NIMT, WVTC, Okakarara VTC, Triumphant College, Valombola VTC, IIT, Lingua College, College of Cape Town; and 12 Interns.
“By investing in these training programmes, Telecom Namibia will ensure a pipeline of skilled and capable talent to fill future engineering positions. It fosters a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement while securing the long-term success of our organization. By acting now and onboarding all these trainees, we shape our future workforce in line with our business plans. The trainee needs expressed by line management in DEPI, Network Operations, Business Information Technology (BIT), Project Management Office, and Field Services far exceed (by more than 100%) the request to employ the trainees listed above,” Telecom Namibia CEO, Dr. Stanley Shanapinda said.
During Phase 2, which will commence in September, Telecom will onboard 3 Engineers-in-Training, 3 Engineering Technicians-in-Training, 5 IP/IT Technicians-in-Training, 25 Apprentices, and 12 Interns.
This comes as Telecom Namibia’s Integrated Strategic Business Plan for 2023 to 2027 has identified onboarding of Apprentices, Graduate Trainees, and Interns as critical resources to ensure a well-balanced and diverse skilled workforce for the telco.
“These trainees will learn from experienced professionals, bridging the skills gap and ensuring continuity in key roles. Embracing this opportunity means fostering innovation, boosting morale, and reinforcing our position as a leading telecommunications company,” the Telecom CEO said.
