Tasting the Success Ingredient in Coke
From the rhythmic hum of production lines to the people driving one of Namibia’s leading beverage operations, learning came alive beyond the classroom for a group of NUST students. During a recent visit to the Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) Namibia production plant in Lafrenz, the students gained a firsthand look at the company’s operations, workplace culture and the diverse career opportunities available to young professionals.
Increasing student success, employability, and placements are key performance indicators of NUST’s Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) 2026-2030. The Department of Corporate Strategy and Institutional Planning facilitated the engagement as part of efforts to strengthen industry partnerships, expand students’ access to career opportunities, and support their transition into the world of work.
The engagement included an overall introduction to CCBA’s history and career opportunities, as well as their Work Integrated Learning (WIL), Graduate in Training (GIT), and Ascend Graduate Leadership programmes. The group also explored the plant’s technical and machinery operations, gaining valuable insight into the technology used in the production process and the integral role employees play in bringing Coca-Cola products to life.
A standout moment was testimonials from their Graduate in Training (GIT) programme participants who have progressed onto leadership roles within the organisation. Their experiences highlighted the importance of adaptability, discipline, continuous learning and a willingness to remain teachable. The visit demonstrated that while qualifications opened doors, personal attributes and a commitment to growth can shape long-term career success.
The experience also allowed students to witness classroom concepts translate into corporate environments. “CCBA’s focus on teamwork, young leadership, professional growth, dedication, and the experience encouraged me to think more broadly about my career and the opportunities through which I can make an impact”, noted Charné Cherlize Diergaardt, a Bachelor of Marketing student.
“The tour emphasises NUST’s commitment to meaningful industry partnerships and practical student learning. The engagement exposed students to real-world operations, professional expectations and potential career pathways, while supporting employability, access to the talent market, and improved WIL placement opportunities,” underscored Ndapewa Nangombe, NUST WIL Industry Liaison Coordinator. She further encouraged continued collaborations with CCBA Namibia and similar industry partners to create opportunities that prepare students for successful transitions into employment.
