WINDHOEK: Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has called on the public to collaborate with the government in investing towards the funding of education in order for Namibia to reach its economic potential and for sustainable growth. Addressing attendees at the high-level tertiary education funding budget review dinner here on Thursday, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila acknowledged the government's limitations in the level of funding required by the education sector. To incentivise the public to come on board through public-private partnerships (PPP), the government has directed the Namibia Student Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) to review its funding policy to include institutions that provide quality training in areas of strategic needs, the prime minister said. 'The government has directed the relevant stakeholders to ensure that within a defined timeframe, we operationalise modalities for implementing PPP… so that we can use the investment we are making in education to catalyse private sector investment,' K uugongelwa-Amadhila stated. In addition to investing in education, the prime minister emphasised the importance of technological advancement, particularly in digitising public services for efficient governance. She further underscored the necessity of cultivating a skilled workforce capable of competing internationally. 'We are not doing the people we are sponsoring a favour, but rather ensuring that we have a productive labour force that can compete with others who will come here from abroad. Education is the cornerstone of our nation's prosperity. Taxpayer funds should be prioritised for educational investment,' Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said. The prime minister also cautioned that without a skilled workforce, Namibia's natural resources, such as mines and oil fields, would be underutilised. Reflecting on recent oil discoveries, the prime minister speculated on the significance of having the requisite expertise to exploit such resources effectively. 'I actually find it interesting that all of a sudden we h ave all these oil findings… I am wondering whether we are only finding them now or whether it has not always been known that they are there, but because we have no ability to discover the oil and no ability to pump it and process it, it has to be found at the right time by those that have the ability to find it, pump it and process it,' she added. The Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation has received N.dollars 4.8 billion for the 2024/25 financial year. Source: Namibia Press Agency Mr Kofi Adams, Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency in the Oti Region, has congratulated Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on her confirmation as Running Mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He expressed confidence in Prof Opoku-Agyemang's ability to bring wisdom, compassion and innovative ideas to the NDC presidential campaign, adding that she was an 'exceptional choice' for the role. 'Your passion for addressing the needs of our citizens and building a better future for all is truly inspiring. As you embark on this journey, know that you have the support and admiration of many who believe in your ability to make a positive impact and lead with integrity,' Mr Adams said in a press statement. He praised the Professor's experience, integrity and vision, adding that she was a 'beacon of hope for those seeking genuine leadership and representation' in the country's political landscape. 'I am confident that with your leadership alongside candidate John Dramani Mahama, our country stands to benefit from your dedication, compassion and strategic vision. Your nomination is a reflection of the trust placed in your abilities to lead our nation towards a brighter future for all citizens,' Mr Adam noted. The NDC National Executive Committee (NEC) confirmed Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as Running Mate to Mr John Dramani Mahama for the 2024 presidential elections after a meeting on Thursday, March 7, 2024 in Accra. Professor Opoku-Agyemang had since indicated preparedness to help the Party win the elections and also serve the nation with dignity and integrity. Source: Ghana News Agency
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