WINDHOEK: The Capricorn Academy for School Leavers, a ‘Young Talent Programme’ of Bank Windhoek, was officially launched in Windhoek on Tuesday, where 10 successful candidates for the programme were unveiled.

Capricorn Foundation Executive Officer, Marlize Horn announced that the curriculum, which was first introduced in May 2024 as the Capricorn Academy for School Leavers, has been renamed the Emerging Bankers Curriculum.

‘The Capricorn Foundation is creating valuable opportunities for young Namibians to acquire essential skills and find employment by investing N.dollars 1 million in the Emerging Bankers Programme,’ she stated.

The programme’s structure, which includes extensive training and job placements over 18 months, reflects a commitment to the foundation nurturing talent and preparing individuals for fulfilling careers in the banking sector, she said.

She added that the Emerging Bankers Programme recognises the unique challenges that young people in small towns face, such as limited access to educ
ation and employment opportunities. These individuals, she said, often encounter significant obstacles to advancing their careers and by providing training and job opportunities locally, the programme addresses unemployment and contributes to the development and empowerment of rural communities.

At the same event, Louretta Louw, Head People Development at Bank Windhoek, stated that the Emerging Bankers Programme aims to create a talent pipeline in smaller towns, foster community engagement, and harness the potential of the youth, thereby providing a sense of belonging to this critical demographic.

She explained that the effort targets long-term solutions through collaboration with local communities and stakeholders.

‘With over 750 applications, the scheme demonstrates early success and a commitment to empowering the youth workforce. It highlights the importance of providing opportunities for those facing challenges in accessing education and employment, ensuring a promising future. Investing in our youth r
educes unemployment, alleviates poverty, and creates a skilled and motivated workforce leading to increased productivity and innovativeness,’ she said.

The branches selected to host the candidates are Mariental (Dirlon Reynolds), Katima Mulilo (Musiyabai Tabale and Iuze Muitumwa), Oshifo (Juliana Fillipus), Ondangwa (Anna Haikali and Mateus Joseph), Outapi (Edla Tjikaka), Oshakati (David Nangombe), Keetmanshoop (Shawnae Stoffel), and Opuwo (Vamanouzeu Muzuma).

Source: The Namibia Press Agency