WINDHOEK, Namibia | September 14, 2026 — President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah has officially sent off 17 young Namibians who will represent the country at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, from September 22 to 27.
The President described Team Namibia as ambassadors of a country working to develop a skilled, innovative and globally competitive workforce.
Nandi Ndaitwah said Technical and Vocational Education and Training is a key part of Namibia’s economic transformation and national development, rather than a secondary education pathway.
She said a strong and future ready TVET system is necessary to prepare Namibians for opportunities in emerging and strategic industries, including green hydrogen, oil and gas, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and digital technology.
The President linked skills development to the priorities of Namibia’s 8th Administration, Vision 2030 and the Sixth National Development Plan, known as NDP6.
She called for continued investment in education, training and youth empowerment, while also urging regular skills audits and labour market assessments to ensure the country develops skills that match the needs of a changing economy.
Addressing the young competitors, Nandi Ndaitwah urged them to approach the international competition with confidence, courage, discipline and humility.
She reminded them that they had earned their places through dedication, training and hard work.
The President also encouraged the team to learn from competitors from other countries, adopt international best practices and return to Namibia with knowledge and experience that can contribute to the country’s development.
She told the young Namibians that their participation in the competition was about more than winning medals.
Their presence in Shanghai represents the hopes and aspirations of young people across Namibia’s 14 regions and demonstrates how technical and vocational skills can create opportunities in employment, entrepreneurship, innovation and industrial development.
Nandi Ndaitwah further encouraged the competitors to serve as role models for other young Namibians and share the knowledge and experience they gain during their time in Shanghai when they return home.
The President also recognised the experts, trainers, team officials, training institutions and industry partners involved in preparing Team Namibia for the international competition.
She assured the young competitors that the Namibian Government and the nation would support them as they carry the country’s flag onto the global stage.
“You are not only competing for yourselves, but for every young Namibian who dreams of becoming an artisan, technician, engineer, entrepreneur or industry leader.”
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