Using Work Integrated Learning to Grow Your Business

Rowan van Dyk
  • 1 Day Ago
For businesses seeking to boost productivity, competitiveness and innovation, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes such as apprenticeships, Work Integrated Learning (WIL), job attachments and internships offer powerful opportunities to build a skilled workforce tailored to specific needs.

The Namibia Training Authority (NTA) has made significant investments in these initiatives, making them valuable tools for businesses looking to grow.



Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with formal education, allowing businesses to train employees as they work. Apprentices acquire practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, which they can immediately apply. For employers, this model is cost-effective, with training partially subsidised by the NTA, while businesses can also customise the skills training to fit their specific operational requirements.



WIL

WIL programmes place students in real work environments as part of their formal education. This offers students hands-on experience, preparing them for the workforce. For employers, WIL provides access to enthusiastic learners who contribute fresh ideas while allowing businesses to assess potential future employees early and shape their skillsets to align with company standards.



Job Attachments

Job attachments offer short-term placements that give TVET students practical exposure to workplace settings. These attachments allow businesses to address temporary staffing needs while creating a pool of trained talent for future hiring. It’s a win-win: students gain valuable skills, and businesses have an opportunity to evaluate their potential as future employees.



Internships

Internships, typically shorter than apprenticeships, allow students and recent graduates to gain real-world experience in their chosen fields. For businesses, internships offer a flexible solution for seasonal or project-based needs while providing an opportunity to assess potential long-term hires.



By engaging in these programmes, businesses can develop a consistent pipeline of talent that is well-equipped to handle industry demands. Whether it’s in construction, agriculture, IT or healthcare, these programmes help businesses address the skills gap while developing a workforce that aligns with their organisational culture and objectives.



As Namibia’s economy continues to grow, leveraging apprenticeships, WIL, job attachments and internships offers businesses a strategic way to build long-term success while meeting current workforce needs.