How TVET and apprenticeships can combat unemployment

Unemployment is one of the most pressing challenges facing Namibia and many other countries worldwide. While traditional higher education continues to produce graduates, the skills mismatch between what students learn and what industries require often leaves young people unemployed or underemployed. Technical and vocational education and training (TVET), particularly through apprenticeships and work-integrated learning (WIL), offers a viable solution to this issue by equipping individuals with the skills that are in demand in the job market.



Hands-on training



TVET’s hands-on, practical approach allows learners to acquire the technical expertise required in various industries, from construction and engineering to healthcare and IT. Apprenticeships, a core component of many TVET programs, combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. This blend ensures that learners not only understand the theory behind their chosen trade but also gain the practical experience needed to apply their knowledge effectively in the workplace.



National initiatives



For businesses, apprenticeships provide a direct route to building a skilled workforce. By offering training opportunities, companies can cultivate a pipeline of qualified workers who are ready to contribute to the organisation from day one. Apprenticeships also help reduce the skills gap, particularly in industries facing a shortage of workers with technical abilities. Moreover, in Namibia, initiatives like the GIZ and ProTVET initiatives and the Namibia Training Authority (NTA)’s funding for apprenticeships make it easier and more cost-effective for companies to invest in young talent.



For individuals, particularly young people and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, apprenticeships offer a clear pathway to employment. Instead of spending years in higher education with no guarantee of a job, apprentices gain valuable work experience while they learn, making them more attractive to employers upon completing their training. Additionally, many apprentices are offered full-time positions with the companies where they trained, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.



As Namibia strives to address unemployment, TVET and apprenticeships must be at the forefront of the solution. By bridging the gap between education and employment, TVET provides individuals with the skills they need to succeed while helping industries meet their labour demands.