Stellenbosch Business School hosted an Alumni Thought Leadership networking event on 28 August 2024, focused on “Upskilling and Reskilling in the Age of AI: Opportunities for Namibian Youth”.
The event was facilitated by the Stellenbosch Business School Alumni Association Namibia, in partnership with V5 Digital and Simpli Business Advisory.
Vivette Rittmann, Co-Creation Facilitator at Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), highlighted AI as having the potential to transform the Namibian business landscape and the various sectors and ministries in the country.
“AI is here to be utilised as a tool to enhance the quality and efficiency of work,” Rittmann said.
“When IT assumed control, it revitalised the business entirely. AI is expected to achieve an even greater impact. In the realm of upskilling, AI is poised to surpass previous advancements.”
Rittmann highlighted that Namibia faces challenges in upskilling and reskilling, compounded by an infrastructure gap.
She noted that the introduction of AI requires 5G technologies, adding that Namibia urgently needed to enhance its infrastructure.
“Challenges that Namibia faces in terms of upskilling and reskilling, infrastructure gap. If we are going to have AI, we are going to have 5G AI, and our infrastructure is not in place. We really need to upgrade our infrastructure if we are going to be competitive, if our youth or anyone is going to be competitive,” Rittmann said.
She said access to connectivity is also a challenge.
“Access to connectivity is a challenge as well. The quality of internet access in Okahandja Park and that of Pionierspark is way different,” Rittmann said.
Professor Anicia Peters, Chief Executive Officer of the National Commission on Research, Science, and Technology (NCRST), believes faster upskilling and reskilling can be achieved through various methods.
Peters highlighted microlearning techniques such as podcasts, free online courses, online industry certifications in AI, extended reality experiences and collaborative learning platforms.
“Faster upskilling and reskilling examples for young people. Microlearning for example, podcasts, free online courses, online industry certifications on AI, extended reality, and collaborative learning,” Peters said.
