The Gobabis Vocational Training Centre (GVTC) deliberated on the opportunity of working together with stakeholders in the Omaheke Region while highlighting technical vocational educational training not just as a career option but as a vital component of career education in schools, a path that offers both practical skills and stability in an evolving world.

Speaking at the one-day training on career guidance at Gobabis for educators and mentors in schools, Acting Centre Manager Albius Muchali stressed the importance of incorporating vocational trades into curriculums. 

Muchali added that balancing academic and vocational learning is essential for helping learners see that there are multiple ways to achieve success, each valuable and satisfying.

"The benefits of TVET are far-reaching for learners; to provide immediate employability with hands-on skills, trainees are often job-ready upon graduation, meeting the needs of both local and national economies. It offers pathways for further growth; it does not stop at entry level; it provides continuous opportunities for professional advancement and specialisation."

He also encouraged entrepreneurs to address skills gaps by equipping trainees with relevant, specialised skills that help fill key roles in various industries.

Omaheke Governor Pijoo Nganate applauded the initiative taken by the centre.

"It is not acceptable that schools should really contract expensive contractors to come and fix our things at schools while we have people here at VTC who are well equipped to do those things, and so we reduce the expenditure of government, we must reduce the expenditure of government."

On his part, the acting Deputy Education Director, Eliakim Kavari, emphasised that diversification has become a key factor in the modern world; hence, it is important to expose learners to various trades.

The Gobabis Vocational Training Centre created the first ever proto-type solar truck, which aims to bring TVET services to the communities.

The idea came about following an identified need to bring VTC services to the community, which finds it difficult to come to the main Centre due to finances.

The prototype, which has earned them awards at different display platforms, will be operated by solar panels mounted on top of the truck.

The solar truck will carry two to four trades at once, depending on the community's needs.

The VTC is in the process of engaging relevant stakeholders and plans to roll it out by the end of the year with its first pilot in Epukiro and eventually to the rest of the country.

The Gobabis Vocational Training Center (GVTC) proudly represented itself as the only public VTC to participate in the recently concluded Windhoek Agricultural and Livestock Show, which took place from 27 September to 5 October 2024 at the Windhoek Showgrounds.

At the event, GVTC was recognized for its outstanding presentation, earning the Silver Diploma Award in the "Best Indoor Exhibition" category. This achievement is significant, given that the show featured a total of 183 exhibitors showcasing a variety of products and services. 

The event attracted a diverse audience, including learners from various schools and community members. It provided an invaluable opportunity for students to explore potential career paths within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. The organizers of the Windhoek Agricultural and Livestock Show were commended for creating a platform that promotes educational and professional growth in this field.

Programs that provide skills training and vocational education empower individuals with the necessary knowledge and abilities to secure employment and generate income. These programs aim to bridge the gap between the skills demanded by the job market and the skills possessed by individuals, particularly youths.