Patience Makwele
Private colleges are stepping in as many young Namibians struggle to access tertiary education and find work, with institutions like International Training College Lingua offering skills-based training to bridge the gap.
As youth unemployment remains high and public institutions cannot absorb growing demand, many school leavers are left without clear pathways into jobs. Some have qualifications but lack practical skills needed in the workplace.
Amid this gap, International Training College Lingua has positioned itself as an alternative route. What started as informal lessons in a one-bedroom apartment has grown into an accredited institution that has trained more than 3 000 students over two decades.
Lingua founder Ingrid Kloppers-Mettler said the college began as a response to need, not a business plan.
“I never set out to start a college. In fact, what would eventually become the International Training College – Lingua began as part of my academic research. To support myself financially during that time, I started offering informal training sessions in basic language skills and computer literacy—not from a classroom, but from a humble one-bedroom apartment,” she said.
“People kept coming, not just for education, but for transformation. That’s when I realised this was bigger than me.”
She said the growth of the institution reflects wider challenges in Namibia’s education system, where access is uneven and many young people struggle to move from school into employment.
“There is still a gap between policy and practice,” she said. “The demand from young people is clear, but the support systems do not always reflect the realities on the ground.”
She added that private institutions face challenges such as limited funding, delays in accreditation and lack of recognition.
For some students, the institution has offered a second chance.
Maria !Nawases (34) said she joined Lingua eight years ago after struggling to find direction with 22 points in Grade 12.
“I was at home with no clear opportunities. It was very stressful seeing my classmates move on,” she said. “After searching online, I came across Lingua. I knew I had to apply. Within three years, I gained skills, confidence and direction. Now I’m working and supporting myself as an office administrator,” she expressed.
Meanwhile, Paulus Uusiku (29) said the practical training helped him secure a job in the technology sector.
“We worked on real systems, not just theory. That made a difference when I started applying for jobs because I already understood what was expected,” said Uusiku.
In 2025, the institution held its 25th graduation ceremony, with more than 1 000 students completing various programmes.
At the event, keynote speaker Dino Ballotti urged graduates to use their skills to create opportunities.
“Education must translate into action. The real value of your qualification lies in how you apply it to solve problems, create opportunities and contribute to the economy. Namibia’s future will be shaped by young people who are willing to step forward and use their skills to build, not wait,” he said.
The institution offers programmes in business, information technology and language training, with a focus on practical skills and personal development.
“True empowerment is not just about access. It is about helping young people discover their voice, their worth, and their ability to move forward,” Kloppers-Mettler said.
Kloppers-Mettler said financial challenges remain, as many students rely on payment plans or external support, placing pressure on institutions.
She also raised concerns about limited inclusion in education leadership.
“Representation must go beyond symbolism,” she said. “It must translate into equal access, fair support and inclusion across all levels.”
Despite these challenges, the institution continues to grow as demand increases.
“Young people cannot afford to wait for perfect conditions. Opportunities must be created, even in difficult circumstances.”
