Kraatz, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, is thrilled to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that is leading the way in a new venture with the University of Namibia (UNAM) and the Welding Association of Namibia. This strategic alliance is set to revolutionise the engineering sector by enhancing the talent pipeline through a synergistic approach that integrates hands-on training within academia, aligns educational curricula with industry requirements, and propels innovation through collaborative research endeavours.
The joint initiative is aimed at narrowing the skills gap prevalent in the Namibian Mechanical engineering industry. By leveraging the strengths of each partner, the MoU will create a seamless pathway from education to employment, ensuring graduates are not only job-ready but also equipped to contribute to the advancement of local industry through innovation and best practices.
“Kraatz and O&L's commitment to nurturing local talent will see students gaining invaluable, on-the-job experience through structured internships, and job attachments and full time employment.”, states Cameron Kali, Talent Acquisition Specialist at O&L. “UNAM's rich academic environment will be enriched by real-world industry insights, enhancing their reputation as a cradle of future industry leaders, while the broader engineering sector will benefit from a workforce that is educated, innovative, and aligned with the needs of industry.”
The MoU outlines specific programs that include:
These programs are designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical skills, providing a holistic educational experience for students.
The anticipated outcomes of this collaboration are multifaceted:
Students and academics eager to take part in this trailblasing initiative are encouraged to reach out to their respective institutional representatives for criteria and application processes.
This partnership embodies the long-term vision of creating a sustainable and self-sufficient local industry that is competitive on a global scale. It aligns with national goals for education and industry development and promises to catalyse the economic and social upliftment of the Namibian society. Prof. Kenneth Matengu, UNAM's Vice-chancellor, has endorsed this partnership, recognising it as a pivotal step towards an inter-connected and progressive future for Namibia.
Frank Kernstock, MD of Kraatz Engineering, adds, “Internship and attachment programs are critical in crafting a robust talent pipeline. At O&L and Kraatz, we envision a sustainable future where Namibians are at the forefront of industry innovation and therefore, we are committed to this journey, alongside UNAM and the Welding Association, in creating and enhancing life locally. This partnership is more than a MoU; it is a promise to the future generations of Namibia, ensuring they have the tools, skills, and opportunities to build a brighter, more innovative future for all. This is authentically who we are, what we care about and for the future we are passionate about.”
