Namibia's president inaugurates new Ondangwa Digital Centre to promote education and innovation
Written by: Mohamed Ragab
Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah arrived in Ondangoa to oversee the opening of the renovated Rössing Foundation Centre, which has been transformed into the Ondangoa Digital Technology and Conference Centre, in a move aimed at supporting education, innovation and community development in the country.
The president was received by the governor of the Oshana region, Hoveny Eppinge, amidst a large public gathering of residents of the region, who had come together to participate in the ceremony of handing over the new facility to the local community.
A development project that promotes education and digital skills
The new center includes a multi-purpose hall that can accommodate about 800 people, and is expected to become a major center for education, training, innovation, community activities and conferences.
The authorities confirmed that the project represents a qualitative leap in the field of digital transformation and skills development, as the facility has been equipped to be a platform for education, scientific research and capacity building, in line with the requirements of the digital economy.
It is also expected that the center will contribute to expanding learning and training opportunities for youth and students, and supporting technological and innovative initiatives in the region.
The Rossing Foundation continues its developmental role.
The Rossing Foundation Centre was established in 1983 and has for more than four decades provided educational and community services to the people of the region, while continuously developing its programs and activities to meet the needs of the Namibian community.
The center's modernization work began last January and lasted for about seven months, with the participation of 179 workers, including local contractors, which reflects the interest in providing job opportunities and enhancing the participation of local companies in development projects.
Chinese support for the development of scientific education
The center includes 73 interactive models of science exhibits, donated by the China Foundation for Science and Technology Development. These models aim to simplify scientific concepts and enhance educational experiences for students and visitors.
It is expected that these exhibits will contribute to encouraging interest in science, technology and innovation among young people, in addition to supporting the educational process within the region.
Presidential praise for the development partnership
During a briefing prior to the opening ceremony, President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah praised the role played by the Rossing Foundation over the decades, stressing that it had directly contributed to improving the lives of citizens.
She pointed out that the project represents a successful model of cooperation between the government and the private sector, calling on investors to follow these initiatives that contribute to the development of local communities.
She also affirmed the continuation of the partnership between the government and Rusing Uranium Company in implementing development projects aimed at enhancing education, empowering communities and supporting national development.
A new community service center in Oshana
Observers believe that the opening of the Ondangwa Digital Technology and Conference Centre reflects Namibia’s orientation towards investing in digital education and innovation, as key drivers of economic and social development.
It is expected that the center will contribute to providing a modern environment for learning, training, and holding events and conferences, which will support the government’s efforts to build a knowledge-based economy and enhance the skills of new generations.
