Namibian lessons at the Science Forum South Africa

The Science Forum South Africa recently took place at the CSIR Convention Centre in Pretoria, bringing together experts and policymakers to discuss the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in shaping the future of the African continent. One of the prominent speakers at the forum was Itah Kandjii-Murangi, the Minister of Higher Education for Namibia, who emphasized the importance of transforming education systems to nurture talent and prepare students for the evolving demands of the future. Minister Kandjii-Murangi highlighted the significance of leveraging science and technology to unlock the hidden potential of young people in both rural and urban areas. She stressed that talent is not limited to formal settings and called for initiatives to reach out to underprivileged communities to identify and develop skills that may otherwise go unrecognized. By incorporating innovation and technology into education, Minister Kandjii-Murangi believes that Namibia can cultivate a new generation of leaders and innovators who will drive progress and prosperity across the country. Moreover, the Minister underscored the need for academic programs to align with the changing landscape of industries and technology. She urged universities to establish meaningful partnerships with the private sector to ensure that curriculum reflects current industry trends and equips students with the skills needed to succeed in the workforce. Minister Kandjii-Murangi emphasized the importance of auditing existing academic programs to eliminate outdated content and adapt to the evolving needs of the job market. Speaking at the Science Forum, Minister Kandjii-Murangi called for a comprehensive understanding of the roles of science, technology, and innovation in national development agendas. She urged policymakers and educators to differentiate between these areas and identify specific targets for each to contribute meaningfully to overall societal progress. By expanding the scope of innovation beyond traditional classroom settings, Minister Kandjii-Murangi believes that countries can tap into the diverse talents and creative potential of their populations. The Minister's address resonated with the audience at the Science Forum South Africa, inspiring dialogue and collaboration on how best to integrate science, technology, and innovation into educational frameworks. As Africa seeks to harness the power of knowledge and technology to drive socio-economic growth, leaders like Minister Kandjii-Murangi play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education and skills development across the continent.