Revolutionising TVET with digital innovation

Barthromeus Shileka, founder and CEO of Edutec Namibia and an educator at the Namibian College of Open Learning (Namcol), is driving a transformative shift in the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) sector in Namibia.His passion, ignited by early exposure to hands-on technical work and training in mechanical and automotive engineering, has led him to address the critical gap in digital learning resources.Shileka established Edutec Namibia to develop innovative educational simulations, aiming to make TVET more accessible and engaging for students. He identified a significant challenge: the perception of vocational training as a second-choice career path. “The opportunities are immense,” he said, emphasising TVET’s crucial role in economic growth.However, he acknowledged a skills mismatch between industry needs and training institutions.Edutec Namibia has achieved success in developing interactive digital simulations for technical education. These simulations are revolutionising how students engage with complex technical concepts, making learning more effective and accessible, even in remote areas. The company continuously invests in research and development, collaborating with educators and industry experts. They also leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, to enhance hands-on learning experiences.Opening doors to new opportunities TVET careers offer excellent opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship; Shileka encourages young Namibians to embrace vocational training with pride. He highlights that skilled trades are the backbone of economic development, and with the right mindset and commitment, TVET can be a rewarding and successful career path.Shileka stresses the importance of public-private partnerships to align training with industry demands. “When companies collaborate with TVET institutions, they can help shape curricula, provide apprenticeships and ensure graduates are work-ready,” Shileka explained. This collaboration strengthens the workforce and boosts economic development.Shileka enjoys working on automotive projects, exploring emerging technologies and mentoring young professionals. Shileka’s career has been enriched by experienced professionals in the automotive and engineering sectors, who instilled in him the importance of discipline, continuous learning and problem-solving.His vision for Edutec Namibia is to be a leading provider of digital education solutions, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. “By enhancing TVET training with technology, we aim to equip Namibians with the skills needed for industry growth and job creation,” he said.“Skills development is the foundation of a strong economy,” Shileka underlined. He encouraged young people to take advantage of vocational training opportunities, as practical skills open doors to employment, entrepreneurship and innovation. “Investing in TVET is investing in the future of Namibia.”

Revolutionising TVET with digital innovation

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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Revolutionising TVET with digital innovation

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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