Max Henrich
ONGWEDIVA – Oshana Regional Governor Hofni Iipinge has urged 127 Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level learners at Iipumbu Senior Secondary School to acquire practical skills that will enable them to create jobs and contribute to Namibia’s economic development.
Speaking at the school’s 2026 AS Level valedictory ceremony last week, Iipinge said that the youth unemployment remains a major national challenge, requiring learners to pursue qualifications that respond to the needs of the economy.
He encouraged learners to explore opportunities in agriculture, technical and vocational education, information technology, engineering, renewable energy, healthcare and entrepreneurship.
“Do not only prepare yourselves to look for jobs. Prepare yourselves to create jobs. I urge you, young people to turn ideas into businesses and challenges into innovations,” he said.
Iipinge said that education remains a powerful instrument for transforming lives, breaking the cycle of poverty and building a prosperous nation. He added that Namibia’s future depends not only on its natural resources but also on the knowledge, skills, creativity and determination of its young people.
He reminded learners that their backgrounds and circumstances should not limit their ambitions, encouraging them to remain resilient in the face of challenges and use failure as an opportunity to learn and improve.
Iipinge also cautioned the learners against allowing the celebrations to distract them from their forthcoming final examinations. He urged them to remain focused, continue studying and make effective use of the remaining preparation time.
“University is not the only pathway to success, vocational training, entrepreneurship and other forms of skills development could also provide opportunities for building meaningful futures,” he said.
Iipinge commended teachers and school management for their dedication in preparing learners for the future, while thanking parents and guardians for their sacrifices in supporting their children’s education.
He called for stronger cooperation between government, schools, parents, the private sector and communities to improve educational outcomes and ensure learners are not held back by circumstances beyond their control.
Addressing the Class of 2026, Iipinge encouraged learners to uphold honesty, discipline, respect and hard work as they pursue their ambitions.
“Go forward and make Iipumbu Senior Secondary School proud. Make Oshana region proud. Above all, make Namibia proud,” he said.
-maxhenrich35@gmail.com
The post Iipinge challenges youth to drive Namibia’s development appeared first on New Era.