Namibia must innovate – Iyambo

At the recent birthday celebrations of the International University of Management, one aspect that stood out from all the contributions, is the high priority attached to innovation and education to ensure sustained economic growth.
According to the Minister of Education, Hon. Abraham Iyambo, Namibia must innovate if it is to turn the economy. “New images must be drawn and we must overcome constraints and add value to our services. As a developing country, we should start identifying new elements to help us succeed and make use of them effectively.”
Iyambo said that courses at tertiary institutions should be relevant to current workplace demands from the industry and applauded the International University of Management for their stride towards a more developed economy. “As a country we must build, nurture and nurse talent.”
He said today’s world market can accommodate only the best players and Namibia must take its place in international markets and enhance change for the better as it has the capacity to do so. “Our mindsets should be innovation driven and each and every one is capable of innovation as it is God-given.”
Iyambo said that new opportunities must be created and innovative people are always geared towards making life easier with new products and services which can compete in the global market. “Let Namibia be in tune with the global market and only through co-operation between industry and institutions will the country succeed in reaching Vision 2030.”
He said that although Namibia is big as a country by size, its population is small and in that way capable of self-sustainability. “If we are innovative, our products will capture the international market’s attention and become the preference but it is up to institutions and the private sector.”
Iyambo encouraged government to invest more in research for the private sector as it is needed to fill the gaps in the workplaces.
The minister emphasised the importance of SME development as one of the key drivers to sustainability. “SME’s too should be nurtured and supported so that they do not remain permanently small.” He referred to them as a hot house for development.
Also speaking at the celebrations, Founding Father, Dr. Sam Nujoma complimented the International University of Management for not only growing in capacity but also on the expansion of the number of courses it offers as well as the physical facility at sight. “We need to enhance education so that we can grow into a knowledge based society” he said.
Nujoma said that tertiary education must be encouraged in order to challenge and participate in the global market. “And I assure you that in doing so, we will win and be in the forefront just like we won independence.”
The Chancellor of IUM, David Namwandi vowed that his institution will continue creating wealth for the country and empowering the youth.