Trade Unions need to invest in worker education – marius Kudumo

WINDHOEK, 12 MAY  – Trade unions need to invest in worker education if they are to succeed in addressing contemporary labour union and human development issues
This was emphasised by Director of International Relations at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, Marius Kudumo during the Labour Resource and Research Institute (LaRRI) graduation ceremony here on Friday.
A group of 24 participants from 10 different unions received certificates in labour studies during the ceremony held at a local school under the theme ‘Investing in worker education for independent thinking’.
Kudumo said trade unions need to realise that they represent a working class and ideological clarity is a prerequisite for any union.
“We need trade unions who understand political and socio-economic challenges facing the working class particular and the country in general,” he said.
Thus unions need to pressure the government and private sector to fund workers education and institutions that conduct labour and social policy research affecting workers in Namibia, he added.
He, therefore, urged unions to make impact in identifying issues and have capacities to influence public policies to be in favour of the poor and vulnerable members of society.
Speaking at the same event, LaRRI Director, Michael Akuupa congratulated graduates and advised them to make an impact in society and further their studies at the University of Namibia (UNAM).
One of the graduates, Nel Zenovan who belongs to the Namibian Financial Institutions Union, said he hopes that everyone will continue to the diploma level at UNAM.
Zenovan said that through the knowledge gained, he will make an impact in public policies to be in favour of the vulnerable society.
LaRRI is a research and education institution committed to the overall political and economic independence of all working people in Namibia.

NAMPA