Fourteen NDF students graduate in automotive engineering

WINDHOEK, 20 SEP – Fourteen students received National Vocational Certificates in Automotive Engineering level 1-3 (Automotive Mechanics) from the Namibian Defence Force’s Military School (MS) at the Osona Military Base on Wednesday.
Speaking at the ceremony, Military School Commandant, Brigadier General Eusebius Kashindi said the course was a response to the lack of experienced automotive mechanics with level 1-3.
“The first of its kind course was realised with Course MS/27/2013 which started with 16 students on 20 September 2013 and ended on 20 September 2016,” said Kashindi.
This is the second graduation of 14 students from Course MS/27/2013: Automotive Mechanics, after two students failed to make it to level 2 for level 3. The graduates are to be awarded the National Qualifications Authority (NQA) and National Qualifications Framework accredited National Vocational Certificate in Automotive Engineering Level 3.
Kashindi also informed the gathering that two automotive engineering courses running at MS Level 3 started on 17 August 2015 and are due to end on 01 December 2018, while Level 2 started on 01 February 2018 and is expected to end on 04 January 2020.
He told the graduates the skills they gained will change their lives.
Minister of Defence Penda ya Ndakolo said this course is special as it is the only course offered by the Military School that is accredited by the NQA and recognised by the Namibia Training Authority so far.
“This graduation is evidence that the Military School is making significant progress and transforming itself in accordance with its vision of becoming a sustainable training institution,” said Ya Ndakolo.
He also recognised the significant contribution made by the Germany Advisory Group, which has been instrumental in all aspects pertaining to the course, from the initial planning to its accreditation.
“The Federal Republic of Germany and the Republic of Namibia jointly funded this project. We sincerely value and appreciate the assistance of Germany.”
Ya Ndakolo further thanked all partners and stakeholders who were involved in making the course a success, including companies that offered job attachment opportunities to the students.
“I congratulate the graduates and wish them a bright future in the application of their knowledge and skills as automotive mechanics,” he added.
The 14 graduates will serve in their respective units and formations. – NAMPA