COSDEC Benguela welcomes new trainees 

COSDEC (Community Skills Development Centre) welcomed 120 new intakes to its Benguela centre in Lüderitz. 

The students who enrolled in Office Admin Level 1 and Level 2, Metal Fabrication Level 2, Hospitality and Tourism Level 2 and Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Level 1 and Level 2 courses had their induction at the Old German Hostel in the harbour town on Thursday.

Speaking at the occasion, Birgitte Fredericks, the mayor of Lüderitz, reminded the students that the day marks the beginning of a powerful journey of skills, discipline, resilience and purpose. “You are not here by accident, but because you choose growth over comfort, progress over excuses, and learning over limits. Your journey begins today. Make it count.”

Fredericks emphasised that Lüderitz is the backbone of every strong economy and the engine behind real development. “It is not a second choice, it is, however, a smart option. COSDEC is not just a training centre, it is a launch pad where you will learn more than theory. You will learn how to solve problems, how to work with others, and how to be punctual, accountable and professional.

The mayor urged the students to take pride in their respective trades. “The buildings we live in, the roads we travel, the technology we use, and the services we rely on every day all exist because skilled hands and trained minds made them possible. From today onwards, you are training to become those hands and those minds. The future of Lüderitz, of Namibia and industry needs skilled, disciplined and motivated young people like you. ”

Fredericks also urged the students to respect their lecturers and to support one another. “Ask questions. Make mistakes, but learn from them, and above all, believe in yourself. Walk this journey with confidence. Work hard, stay focused and remember, skills open doors, but attitude keeps them open.”

COSDEF Benguela centre manager, Protasius Naanjukue, reminded the students that the path will not always be easy. “There will be moments of difficulty and uncertainty. Remain focused on the reasons that inspired you to begin this journey. There are no shortcuts to success. Once you have committed yourselves to this process, persevere and see it through to completion.”

Naanjukue highlighted that the nine COSDEC centres operating across eight regions under the umbrella of the Community Skills Development Foundation (COSDEF) play a critical role within communities. “Our primary mandate is skills development, equipping trainees not only with competencies that enable them to seek employment but also with the entrepreneurial capacity to create employment opportunities for others. In doing so, you become catalysts to growth and transformation within your communities,” he said.

Naanjukue also encouraged the students to make use of the knowledge, guidance, and support of their instructors. “These individuals will also serve as your mentors and guardians throughout your time at the centre. Regard them as essential tools and resources that will help pave your path to a brighter future. Treat them with respect and walk with them in harmony,” he concluded.