On 11 and 12 September 2024 we hosted 1st and 2nd year students from the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) Food Science and Technology programme for an insightful visit to our Avis processing and packaging plant. This forms part of Namibia Dairies’ ongoing commitment to youth development and talent nurturing through real-world exposure in line with O&L’s Emerging Talent Programme.
The visit is a continuation of our efforts to help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience. The students, who are currently engaged in UNAM’s redesigned curriculum module on Workplace Attachment Preparation, were offered a hands-on view of how food science principles are applied in a real-world setting. This initiative plays a key role in ensuring the future workforce is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to get started and thrive in professional environments.
At Namibia Dairies we understand and underscore the importance of preparing the next generation of professionals to meet industry demands, especially in fields as dynamic as food science and technology. This initiative supports Namibia’s Vision 2030 by contributing to local job creation and fostering youth empowerment. Through the collaboration with UNAM, we aim to play a pivotal role in the development of skilled professionals who can drive innovation and sustainability in Namibia’s food industry.
The redesigned curriculum by UNAM, with its focus on workplace attachment, demonstrates the university’s commitment to meeting industry expectations. The programme is aimed at preparing students for internships and future careers, while Namibia Dairies offers them the opportunity to engage with professionals, learn industry best practices, and gain insights that will prepare them for successful careers.
“As a student, having this opportunity to engage with the industry not only helps us understand what is expected of us as future employees, but also the role we play in helping to solve problems through innovation. Getting an opportunity to network and engage with industry experts helps build interest. My advice to students would be to help out as much as you can in your departments, gain as much experience and exposure as possible and this will help you get the recommendations you need to secure your future with the best employers such as Namibia Dairies and O&L.” - Jennifer Areses, Masters Student in Agriculture (Food Science by Thesis student at the University of Namibia)
During this particular seminar series event, Namibia Dairies’ Marketing Manager, Dalinka Alberto, served as the main speaker. Leveraging her experience at the helm of Namibia Dairies’ brand and innovations team, paired with the focus on O&L’s key characteristics of being authentic, caring, and passionate, Mrs. Alberto shared invaluable insights into the real-world demands of the food science industry and just what employers look for in young leaders entering the workplace after graduation. Said Mrs. Alberto:
“At O&L, we believe in investing in our youth to create a prosperous future for Namibia. This collaboration with UNAM aligns perfectly with our Emerging Talent Initiative, where we focus on exposing young talent to the practical aspects of their fields, empowering them with the necessary skills to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application."
O&L’s commitment to youth development is continuous in that through initiatives like the Emerging Talent Programme, Namibia Dairies and other O&L subsidiaries provide long-term support to young Namibians by creating opportunities for internships, mentorship, and potential permanent employment within the Group. This integrated approach to skills development ensures that O&L not only contributes to Namibia’s economic growth but also plays a leading role in creating a sustainable future for the country’s youth. Students were guided to get more information on the Emerging Talent Program on the O&L Website (www.ol.na)
The University of Namibia (UNAM) is the largest and leading institution of higher learning in Namibia, established in 1992. UNAM offers a diverse range of academic programmes across its multiple campuses, providing students with opportunities for growth in various fields of study. With a mission to achieve excellence in teaching, research, and community service, UNAM plays a pivotal role in developing Namibia’s human resources, contributing to the country’s socio-economic development. The institution is dedicated to bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice through partnerships and curriculum innovations, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to meet the needs of a dynamic, global workforce.
