Youth should create jobs, not only seek employment – Sankwasa

Urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa says young people should use their skills, knowledge and entrepreneurship to create employment opportunities and contribute to Namibia’s development.

Sankwasa made the remark at the Students’ Union of Namibia General Students Assembly on Tuesday, where he urged students not to focus only on finding jobs after graduation, but to become creators of economic opportunities within their communities.

He said the knowledge and skills acquired at universities should ultimately be used to support the country’s development and strengthen local economies.

Sankwasa also encouraged young professionals to consider working in rural areas, saying these communities present opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and development.

“Rural Namibia is not a place to escape from, it is a frontier of opportunity,” he said.

The minister said young people are the leaders, innovators and custodians who will shape Namibia’s socio-economic and political future.

“This gathering should not be seen merely as a meeting of students, but as a congregation of future policymakers, innovators, entrepreneurs and custodians of Namibia’s destiny,” he said.

He urged youth organisations and student bodies to work together despite ideological differences.

“The future of Namibia will not be built through division among young people, but through unity of purpose, mutual respect and constructive collaboration,” Sankwasa said.

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