Earlier this year, Rössing Uranium reinforced its commitment to skills development and technical education through the donation of a laser alignment tool to the Namibia Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT).
The precision instrument, valued at approximately N$130,000, will be used in the training of Fitter and Turner apprentices, equipping future artisans with practical experience using technology currently deployed in industry.
The investment reflects the importance of aligning technical training with the evolving needs of Namibia’s mining and industrial sectors, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant, industry-ready skills.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Rössing Uranium’s Manager for Mining Asset Management, Chris Tueutjiua, highlighted the importance of ensuring that technical institutions keep pace with technological advancements in the workplace.
“It is a new industrial tool, and with emerging technological advancements, this is where industry is headed. This tool is what we are using in industry, and it is important that the artisans know how to use this tool before they leave school.”
– Chris Tueutjiua, Manager: Mining Asset Management, Rössing Uranium
He noted that partnerships between industry and training institutions play a critical role in developing the skilled workforce required to support Namibia’s future growth.
“This support is based on the ethos that we water the same grounds we cultivate from. So, we are happy that we can support NIMT. Please equip your artisans to be ready for the market. I’m sure that wherever they go, they will be confronted by this.”
– Chris Tueutjiua
Supporting Industry-Relevant Skills Development
NIMT Executive Director Ralph Bussel welcomed the donation, describing it as an important contribution towards maintaining training standards that meet industry expectations.
“As NIMT, we strive to align our training with what industry expects, but it is sometimes a challenge to purchase tools of this value because of the lack of funds.”
– Ralph Bussel, Executive Director, NIMT
He added that support from industry partners enables the institution to provide apprentices with access to modern equipment and practical training opportunities.
“You have ploughed into what is needed. Industry expects us to be at this level and with your support, we will get there.”
– Ralph Bussel
Investing in Namibia’s Future Workforce
As Namibia’s mining and industrial sectors continue to evolve, partnerships between industry and training institutions remain essential to developing a skilled and competitive workforce.
Through investments such as this, Rössing Uranium continues to contribute to the development of technical capacity, helping to ensure that apprentices gain hands-on experience with the tools and technologies they will encounter in the workplace.
The donation reflects a shared commitment between industry and education institutions to strengthen vocational training and create opportunities for the next generation of Namibian artisans.
By investing in modern training equipment, Rössing Uranium is helping to equip future artisans with the practical skills required to support Namibia’s industrial and mining sectors.
Contributed by Rössing Uranium
