The Governor of the Bank of Namibia, Mr Johannes !Gawaxab, officially launched the Bank’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) Robotics and Coding Bootcamp.
The STEAM Bootcamps, officially launched last week at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), aim to introduce 240 Namibian learners from public schools and rural areas to educational activities, capacitating them with skills in Robotics, Automation, Coding, IT Electronics, 3D Printing, and other technological applications.
In support of the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture’s endeavours to equip students with these critical skills, the Bank of Namibia introduced STEAM education to foster digital skills and innovation.
As Namibia aspires to become an industrialised nation, skills development will be instrumental in enabling the country to achieve this goal.
The project will target four schools across the country: Nuuyoma Senior Secondary School (Omusati Region), Wennie Du Plessis Senior Secondary School (Omaheke Region), P K De Villiers Secondary School (Karas Region), and Hans Daniel Namuhuya Secondary School (Oshikoto Region).
The selection of the schools was based on their longstanding relationship with the Bank and previous computer donations that had been made to the schools’ computer labs.
As part of the project, learners will be challenged to use STEAM skills to create solutions that address the needs and challenges they face within their respective communities and regions.
As such, the project will aim to cultivate innovative thinking among learners and prepare them for future jobs, future challenges, and technological advancements.
This will further enhance competitiveness among students, providing an opportunity for cutting-edge solutions that will benefit schools and communities at large.
Officiating at the event, Deputy Minister of Education, Arts and Culture Ms. Faustina Caley described the project as one that would open the door to boundless opportunities, and empower the youth to be critical thinkers and problem solvers.
The Deputy Minister further stated that the launch of the initiative signifies a shared commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge to excel in a rapidly changing world.
‘’In a world characterised by rapid technological advancement and dynamic global challenges, academic excellence alone is no longer sufficient. Our students must be equipped with critical thinking skills, problem-solving acumen, and adaptability to navigate the modern world,’’ Caley said.
The Governor of the Bank encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity with open minds and unlock their endless potential.
‘’Take every moment as a chance to learn, experiment, and create. The knowledge and skills you gain through this initiative will not only open doors for you but also contribute to the growth and development of our great nation. Remember that you are the future architects of our digital landscape, and your potential is boundless,” !Gawaxab said.
In the photo: BoN Governor Johannes !Gawaxab with Deputy Minister Faustina Caley and some officials and learners of participating institutions and schools.
