Students urged to view project management as key to career growth

Students and young professionals have been urged to embrace project management not only as a career path, but as a critical skillset for career advancement.

Speaking at the 15th edition of the Namibia Careers Expo on Monday, Monasa Advisory and Associates project manager Lineekela Hamutumwa shared insights of how the role can strengthen professional development.

“Project management is the structured process of planning, organising and executing tasks to turn ideas into finished products, services or goals on time and within budget,” she said.

She said the skill transforms employees into leaders.

Hamutumwa said the practice is built on three key pillars: leadership development, strengthening human skills such as collaboration and emotional intelligence, and building credibility through measurable results.

“It transforms individuals into leaders rather than doers, encouraging them to view responsibilities as projects requiring planning, coordination and solutions. . . Trust is the currency of promotion. When leaders trust you to deliver, they will trust you with greater responsibility,” she said.

She added that project management improves communication skills, as professionals spend most of their time engaging with teams, executives and clients.

She encouraged students to start developing these skills during their academic journey by taking initiative in group assignments, managing timelines and ensuring accountability.

The career event brought together pupils and industry experts to explore career opportunities across various fields.

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