Staff Writer
The University of Namibia (Unam) has launched Africa’s first international welding engineer programme at its José Eduardo dos Santos Campus in Ongwediva.
The programme was introduced on 13 April under the framework of the International Institute of Welding.
It has enrolled its first group of 12 students and aims to build technical skills for sectors such as green hydrogen, oil and gas, mining, shipbuilding and steel construction.
The qualification is the highest level in the global welding certification system. It is designed to prepare graduates to meet international standards for quality, safety, and performance.
Unam vice chancellor Kenneth Matengu said the programme is a milestone for Namibia and the continent.
“This programme is a defining achievement not only for Unam but also for Namibia and the African continent. It demonstrates our commitment to producing industry-ready graduates who can compete globally while addressing local development priorities. Through this initiative, we are strengthening Namibia’s position in emerging sectors such as green hydrogen and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
The programme is offered in partnership with the Association for Welding & Allied Processes of Namibia.
The partnership aims to strengthen links between training institutions and industry.
Thomas Boellinghaus, president of the International Institute of Welding, said the initiative has international support.
“This initiative reflects strong international collaboration and support. Through the German Federal Ministry of Education & Research, 10 scholarships have been secured under the RealTest Project, with an additional 30 scholarships to follow.
The programme’s integration with green hydrogen applications makes it unique globally,” he said.
Industry has also backed the programme. Frank Kernstock, managing director of Kraatz Engineering and chair of WeldNAM, said the sector has faced a shortage of skilled professionals.
“For years, industry has faced a shortage of highly qualified welding coordinators. This programme addresses that gap. We are proud to invest in developing Namibian expertise that will support our growing industrial sectors,” he said.
Kraatz Engineering has sponsored two students in the first group.
Programme coordinator and WeldNAM chief executive officer Tom Alweendo said the first intake marks the start of long-term growth in engineering skills.
“This first cohort represents the beginning of a new era in Namibia’s engineering capabilities. Their skills will elevate quality, innovation and competitiveness across multiple industries,” he said.
Paul Kah from University West in Sweden said this level of training is rare in Africa.
“High-level welding engineering education of this calibre remains rare in Africa. This programme is a pivotal step in positioning Namibia, and the continent, within the global industrial landscape,” he said.
The programme builds on a memorandum of understanding signed between Unam and the International Institute of Welding more than two years ago.
It forms part of efforts to develop skills needed to support Namibia’s industrial growth and development.
