JICA Employability Improvement Project Empowers VTCs
The University’s Cooperative Education Unit in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) recently handed over Employability Improvement Project (EIP) training kits to three Vocational Training Centres (VTCs): Okakarara, Eenhana, and Rundu that were locally manufactured.
The EIP, first piloted in 2018, was designed to equip students with essential employability skills before entering industry internships. The training blends theory and practice, simulating a car assembly environment where students learn key workplace skills such as problem-solving, productivity improvement, teamwork, and leadership.
NUST’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Industry Liaison Coordinator, Khumalo Kapelwa, highlighted the real-world impact of the programme stating that the EIP helps students understand workplace expectations. “Our participants consistently report that the training prepared them to apply their knowledge meaningfully and improve processes in their workplaces,” added.
Following the success of the pilot phase, full-scale implementation commenced in 2021 under a cooperation agreement between NUST and JICA (EIP Phase 1). Phase 2 began in May 2024 and runs until the end of 2025. With the support of the Namibia Training Authority (NTA), Okakarara, Eenhana, and Rundu VTCs were selected as pilot institutions for the rollout.
JICA’s Industrial Human Resources Development Adviser, Rie Shinozaki, noted that, “The combination of theory and hands-on experience enables trainees to overcome initial challenges and achieve tangible results.” Through this collaboration, NUST continues to drive skills development and industry readiness, supporting Namibia’s vision for a more competent, employable, and innovative workforce.
