The Reconstructed Living Labs popularly known as RLabs Namibia under the auspices of the Namibia Business Innovation Institute at the Namibia University of Science and Technology held its 7th graduation ceremony on the 22nd of November 2018 at the Innovation Village in Windhoek.

“Empowering young people and ensuring their participation at all levels will help them shape a better and more equitable future for all of us” noted the Permanent secretary of the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service, Mrs. Emma Kantema – Gaomas.

Approximately 70 unemployed young people and other employed individuals were awarded with certificates in Social media management, Project management, Social innovation and entrepreneurship and Photography and events management. The overall aim of the training is equip unemployed youth with much needed skills to enter the job market and start their own businesses.

“Our youth are our most precious resource for national socio-economic and technological development and I am delighted that many of you seek alternative paths to employment and stable livelihood”.

The Reconstructed Living Labs (RLabs) concept originated in South Africa in 2008 and to date it operates in 22 countries worldwide. The courses are free of charge for unemployed youth and other community members but costs are charged for organisations, businesses and entrepreneurs who require specialised training.