Pictured during the Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) Scholarship Outreach Workshops in all 14 regions of Namibia
In the wake of the 2nd Call for Master’s degree and TVET Scholarship Applications under the Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) Programme, the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) proudly announces the successful conclusion of an extensive outreach workshop. This collaborative effort with regional Governors, councillors, and the Namibian government has left a a significant impression, spanning in all 14 regions of Namibia. With over 250 participants in some regions and 150 in others, the response was nothing short of remarkable.
The nationwide outreach workshop took place from 18th to 26th September 2023. During this period, the SASSCAL staff visited each of Namibia’s 14 regions to engage with local communities, educational institutions, and aspiring scholars under the guidance of Regional Governors. The workshops served as a platform to impart valuable information on the scholarship application process, eligibility criteria, and the overarching goals of the Y4H2 Programme.
The event witnessed the active participation of Governors, councillors, community leaders and Namibian government representatives, all of whom shared a common vision of fostering sustainability through education, further underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined this initiative. Their presence served as a testament to the importance of green hydrogen scholarships in shaping Namibia’s future.
The heart of this initiative lies in the opportunity it provides to Namibian youth. The scholarship program, designed to nurture young talent and passion for green hydrogen technology, aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders in the field. By supporting them through their academic journey, it is opening doors to a brighter, more sustainable future for both the youth and the nation.
The outreach workshops were not just a gathering but a call to action. Participants were encouraged to apply for the scholarship, which offers them the chance to be a part of something bigger. It’s an opportunity to study, research, and innovate in the green hydrogen sector, contributing to the global shift towards a more sustainable energy future.
The success of the scholarship outreach workshops was a testament to the collective enthusiasm for a greener, more sustainable Namibia. The youth were inspired, educated, and empowered to take the next steps in their educational journey. With their potential harnessed and supported, Namibia is taking confident steps towards becoming a leader in green hydrogen technology.
The event, which unfolded over two weeks, came to a triumphant close on the 27th of September 2023. As the workshops concluded, the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future seemed within reach. Namibian youth now have the tools, the knowledge, and the opportunity to play a pivotal role in this green revolution.
In the words of one attendee, “This workshop has uncovered a great opportunity. We are ready to submit our applications for the Green Hydrogen Youth Scholarships and actively contribute to this transformative initiative in Namibia. With the scholarships’ support and our government’s endorsement, there are no limits to what we can achieve.”
The resounding success of this outreach workshop underscores a commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders in sustainable technology. During the event government representative applauded a joint venture between the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Namibian Ministry of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation, opened unprecedented opportunities for Namibian youth.
SSASCAL is very grateful for the consistent guidance it receives from the Honorable Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Itah Kandjii-Murangi. This guidance has played a pivotal role in realizing the objectives of this transformative initiative. Members of the JCoI Technical working group (TWG), Stratagic working group (SWG) and representatives from Universities and Training Insttitutioins in Namibia continue to give their time, skills and experience towards the successful implementation of the Y4H2. This collaboration represents a significant step in preparing Namibia in fostering innovation in the green hydrogen sector, paving the way for a sustainable future for Namibia and the broader Southern African region. The Youth for Green Hydrogen Scholarship is fully funded by the BMBF.
