From learning to earning
The Old Mutual Foundation hosted Youth Indaba 3.0 at the University of Namibia’s Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus in Ongwediva, bringing together around 150 learners, students, young professionals, partners and industry leaders under the theme “From learning to earning: Creating sustainable futures”.
The Indaba was designed as a practical, solution-driven platform to equip young Namibians with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to move from education into meaningful economic participation. It directly addressed challenges such as unemployment, underemployment and the growing demand for adaptable skills in a changing economy.
Professor Jacob Sheehama, director of the Oshakati and Hifikepunye Pohamba Campuses, opened the event by highlighting the importance of collaboration between academic institutions, the private sector and development partners to ensure education remains aligned with labour market needs.
Delivering the keynote address, Patricia Olivier, chairperson of the Old Mutual Foundation Board and managing director of Old Mutual Corporate Segment, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to youth empowerment.
‘Pressing challenge’
“Youth unemployment and underemployment remain among Namibia’s most pressing challenges. Platforms like the Youth Indaba are not about inspiration alone; they are about equipping young people with practical skills, confidence and clear pathways to build sustainable futures,” she said.
The programme featured five expert-led sessions covering career identity and workplace readiness (Lisa Matomola); mental health and emotional intelligence (Priscilla Husselmann); agri-entrepreneurship as a sustainable income pathway (Kakunandunda Katuuo); financial literacy and investment fundamentals (Michael Shapopi); and personal branding in a competitive digital environment (Sem Mandela Uutoni).
An interactive panel discussion further explored practical strategies for transitioning from learning to earning, prompting strong audience engagement.
Beyond knowledge-sharing, the Indaba delivered tangible support. Two tuition vouchers worth N$10 000 each were awarded through a lucky draw. Additional coaching and mental wellness sessions were also provided by speakers.
The day concluded with live entertainment, mocktails and networking.
