Developing a new generation of maritime leaders

Maritime Week, organised by the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport), will feature an engaging lineup of activities while bringing together learners from across Namibia for debates, port tours, and vessel viewing experiences.

“The event, under the auspices of the Namport Social Investment Fund, will take place from 26 to 30 September. It aims to promote maritime careers among school learners and the wider community. The initiative also aligns with the fund's pillars of quality education, environmental, and entrepreneurial skills/SME development,” explained Tana Pesat, the corporate communications manager at Namport.

Planning for the future

Namport Week was initially successfully launched and hosted in conjunction with World Maritime Day - where approximately 800 pupils participated, with enthusiastic responses from schools in various regions to participate in future events. According to Pesat, the Maritime Week serves as a platform for young minds to dive into the world of maritime trade and navigation.

She explained that the program - which aims to effectively create nationwide awareness and promote the Namport Maritime Week across all 14 regions of the country, focusing primarily on grade 9 learners - will span over three years, starting in the current financial year (2023/24). “In the first year of the program, the Namibian Schools Debating Association will manage regional debating competitions and select winning teams from each region. The winners will then compete in the National Namport Maritime Debating Championships during the Namport Maritime Week.”

The selected students from each region will also gain practical exposure to maritime-related knowledge through visits to stakeholder facilities, departmental visits, port tours, and career exhibitions and will walk away with massive prizes.

Each region is expected to select ten learners to partake in the debate, with a focus on gender equality and consistency. “As participants gather from different regions of Namibia, the debates are expected to showcase the enthusiasm and knowledge of these learners on maritime-related topics. These discussions will not only foster healthy competition but also allow participants to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the maritime industry,” said Pesat.

Up close and personal

One of the highlights of the event is the port tour, where participants get an up-close look at the bustling operations of Namport. From cargo handling to logistics management - the tour offers an immersive experience, shedding light on the intricate processes that facilitate global trade. Learners will personally witness the role of modern technology and innovation in ensuring the smooth flow of goods through the port.

Pesat added that another integral part of the event will provide participants with a chance to step aboard various vessels and learn about their functions and significance. “This hands-on experience will foster a connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering learners a unique perspective on the maritime world.”

Namport’s commitment towards nurturing maritime education is evident in its continued support for this annual event and in creating a platform for young learners to engage with industry professionals, experience real-world operations, and debate key maritime issues, Namport is contributing to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive the future of the sector in Namibia.

“We are dedicated to developing a new generation of maritime leaders who are well-equipped to navigate the complex waters of the global maritime industry. Participating learners will have the chance to explore career options and bursary schemes within the industry,” Pesat highlighted.