By: Nghiinomenwa-vali Erastus
The government, in collaboration with various German institutions, have opened the second call for the green hydrogen and renewable energy scholarship programme for 2024.
The second call for Master’s degree and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) scholarship applications for Namibian youths was announced this week.
The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) is the implementing partner for the Youth For Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) programme.
The aim is to develop a supportive ecosystem for green hydrogen as the country’s skill set is not fit or inadequate for new industries.
According to the statement released, capacity building for Namibian youths under the Y4H2 scholarship programme will facilitate capacity building for the emerging Green Hydrogen industry “to avail more opportunities for employment of youth in the country”.
The required labour typically holds advanced degrees in relevant fields such as chemical engineering, electrical and power systems engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or materials science.
On the other hand, professionals undergoing (TVET or similar programmes are set to play a crucial role in the practical implementation and operation of renewables-driven hydrogen.
They are required to possess specialised technical skills, enabling them to perform hands-on tasks related to renewable power generation, the production of hydrogen and its derivatives, equipment maintenance, system monitoring, etc.
These professionals may include technicians, operators, maintenance personnel, and skilled artisans.
According to the statement released by the government, it is anticipated that the number of jobs within the emerging Green Hydrogen economy will grow exponentially over the coming years.
This is because Namibia is an optimal location for the production of green hydrogen and its derivatives; thus, the country must lead in building capacities for the new industry, the statement explained.
This is to ensure people are trained and ready to contribute to the emerging green hydrogen economy workforce.
As a first move towards building a green hydrogen workforce, the scholarship has been designed to mainly target graduates and those interested in advancing in Vocational Education and Training in the field of Green Hydrogen.
The Y4H2 Programme-Namibia offers scholarships to Namibian Youth (18 – 35 years old) in the two categories related to the green hydrogen value chain: 1. Masters’ degree (in disciplines such as applied science, renewable energy/sustainable energy systems, logistics, and supply chain management).
The second category is Technical Vocational Education and Training – TVET Certificate Levels 3, 4, and 5 related to the Green Hydrogen value chain.
This is in trades such as boiler making, bricklaying and plastering, plumbing and pipe fitting, welding and metal fabrication, solar and wind energy systems installation and maintenance, and business services)
The deadline for submission of the applications for Y4H2 scholarships is 06 October 2023. Email: erastus@thevillager.com.na
