Revamping Vocational Education: Okakarara Training Centre's Transformative Journey
In an exciting development for vocational education in Namibia, the Okakarara Vocational Training Centre, established in 1977, is in the midst of significant renovations that promise to enhance learning for its students. As the oldest centre under the Namibian Training Authority’s umbrella, the site symbolizes both history and future potential in the country’s technical education landscape.
The centre’s Head of Finance and Administration, Gift Kerii, announced that a substantial budget of N million has been allocated specifically for these renovations. Importantly, the initiative has embraced a community-centric approach by integrating both former and current students into the renovation project as part of their internships. This not only provides hands-on experience but builds a close-knit learning environment that fosters collaboration across generations.
Gift Kerii expressed pride in the centre’s longstanding tradition, stating, “Today we are standing at 11 trades that are being offered at Okakarara Vocational Training Centre. Through the NTA’s pivot and transformation strategy, we are committed to upgrading our facilities to ensure they meet contemporary educational standards.”
Among the initiatives, students enrolled in bricklaying and plastering workshops are engaging in meaningful activities that allow them to learn vital skills related to construction and renovation. The hands-on experience of renovating structures will prepare them to contribute to the industry for years to come, cultivating a new generation of skilled workers dedicated to national development.
Sustainability is also a key focus of this renovation project. Kerii highlighted the centre’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, explaining that a significant amount of recycling is part of their cost-cutting measures. “We are repurposing old materials to minimize waste and protect the environment. For instance, we recently transformed old roof trusses into new door frames.”
Such an innovative approach not only preserves resources but serves as a teaching tool for the students, demonstrating the value of sustainability in craftsmanship. The centre typically spends around N0,000 on training materials for the carpentry workshop every six months, excluding assessment materials, highlighting the need for continuous investment in practical resources.
As the Okakarara Vocational Training Centre embarks on this transformative journey, it stands not just as an institution of learning but as a beacon of hope and opportunity, showcasing the importance of vocational training in equipping Namibia’s youth for future challenges.
Tags: #Tourism #Education #Namibia #WorldNews
