From September 22 to 27, 2025, the GVTC team demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication at the prestigious National Skills Competition held at the Swakopmund Dome. The event brought together talented trainees from across the country, providing a platform to showcase their expertise in various occupational fields.

Our dedicated trainees participated enthusiastically in multiple categories, exemplifying their technical prowess and commitment to excellence. Among them, two trainees represented GVTC in Automobile Technology, impressing judges with their advanced skills in vehicle maintenance and repair. Their performance highlighted the high standard of training and practical knowledge fostered at GVTC.

In the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning category, one trainee demonstrated proficiency in designing and installing climate control systems, reflecting the program’s focus on real-world applications. Meanwhile, a trainee specializing in Electrical Installations showcased their abilities in electrical wiring, circuit design, and system integration.

Notably, our Fashion Technology trainee exhibited remarkable creativity and technical skill in garment design and production, earning a bronze medal (3rd prize) in their category. Their innovative approach and craftsmanship received well-deserved recognition from the judges.

Additionally, a Mechanical Engineering CAD trainee impressed the panel with mastery of computer-aided design, illustrating the importance of digital skills in modern engineering practices.

GVTC is immensely proud of our trainees' achievements and their unwavering dedication. Their participation not only enhances their individual skills but also elevates the institute’s reputation as a leader in vocational training and educational excellence.

In a notable achievement, GVTC was also awarded 3rd prize and a bronze medal in the exhibition category, showcasing the innovative projects and capabilities of our trainees to a broader audience.

Congratulations to all our competitors for their hard work, professionalism, and inspiring performances. These successes reflect GVTC’s ongoing commitment to developing skilled professionals who are ready to meet the demands of their respective industries.

GVTC – Building Skills, Shaping Futures.

On 13 October 2025, the Technical Working Group on Tertiary Education, Science, Technology, Research and Innovation, appointed by the Honourable Minister of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, conducted a significant visit to GVTC.

The purpose of this visit was to assess the Centre’s infrastructure, facilities, and equipment, as part of a broader mission to develop a comprehensive National Master Plan for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. This initiative aims to ensure that Namibia’s vocational training institutions are aligned with national development goals and international standards.

During the visit, the committee carefully evaluated the current state of GVTC’s resources, identifying areas that require upgrades to enhance teaching and learning environments. The insights gathered will inform the creation of the National Master Plan, which is designed to strategically guide infrastructure development, resource allocation, and sector reforms.

The overarching goal of the Master Plan is to modernize the TVET sector, ensuring it is equipped to meet the evolving needs of industry and the economy. By aligning infrastructure and facilities with global best practices, Namibia aims to produce a skilled workforce capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.

This visit underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening vocational education through targeted investments and strategic planning. The outcomes of the assessment will shape future policies and infrastructure development, ensuring that GVTC and other similar institutions can provide high-quality training that meets both local and international standards.

As part of the ongoing celebrations marking 35 years of fruitful German-Namibian cooperation, the ProTVET project, under the leadership of Programme Manager Mr. Jerry Beukes and his dedicated team, hosted a significant site visit to GVTC on October 8th, 2025. The visit was attended by Mr. Hauke Brankamp, the newly appointed Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Namibia, aimed at showcasing the impactful contributions of German support to Namibia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector.

The visit centered around GVTC, a beneficiary of substantial direct support since 2019, totaling N$43 million. This investment has facilitated the transformation and expansion of the centre, including the construction of three state-of-the-art training workshops for Automotive Mechatronics, Welding and Metal Fabrication, Leather Crafting, and Fashion Technology. Notably, two of these workshops were fully equipped through ProTVET’s efforts, diversifying the training programmes available to students. Additionally, a solar power plant was erected to sustainably address the centre’s energy needs, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmentally friendly development.

The team was warmly welcomed by GVTC’s Centre Manager, Mr. Sens Shoolongo, along with his staff. During the visit, Mr. Brankamp shared brief remarks, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and support. Mr. Shoolongo also delivered a comprehensive presentation about GVTC’s journey and achievements, highlighting the centre’s growth and the positive impact on the community.

A guided walkthrough of the new training workshops and the photovoltaic solar plant provided visitors with a firsthand view of the advancements made possible through German partnership. The visit culminated with closing remarks that reflected on the success and future prospects of the cooperation.

GVTC is grateful for the ongoing support, which has significantly contributed to building a skilled workforce and fostering sustainable development in the region.

Gobabis Vocational Training Centre (GVTC) trainees are currently immersed in an innovative and practical project focused on manufacturing leather school shoes. This initiative aims to equip trainees with valuable hands-on experience in leather craftsmanship, manufacturing processes, and entrepreneurship skills.

The project involves multiple stages, including designing, cutting, stitching, and finishing leather shoes specifically tailored for school children. Trainees are actively involved in each step under the guidance of experienced trainers, promoting skill development and confidence in their abilities.

This practical project not only enhances the trainees' technical expertise but also encourages teamwork, time management, and quality control. Additionally, producing school shoes locally aims to provide affordable and durable footwear options for students, fostering self-reliance and community development.

The GVTC's focus on such projects exemplifies its commitment to vocational education that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application. As trainees continue to work diligently, the success of this initiative is expected to create employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy. 

Overall, the leather school shoes project represents a significant step toward empowering youth with skills that have both social and economic benefits.

By:

Violet N. Simataa

Gobabis Vocational Training Centre (GVTC)

18 June 2024