The Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy has applauded the diamond sector companies, Diaman and The Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC), for their continued efforts in youth development.
The youth remains a necessary cog in the development of a nation.
“I would like to applaud Mr. Ofer Babluki and all the diamond mining companies that form part of the Diaman board, as well Mr. Brent Eiseb and his hardworking team at NDTC that have recognised the diamond in the rough that is Physically Active Youth (PAY) and have backed it up with quality so it can continue to shine and soldier on in its bid to develop young people holistically and empower them to be future leaders of our country,” said Kornelia Shilunga, the Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy.
Shilunga, speaking at the handover of a N$700,000 sponsorship to PAY, cited that the contribution was not the first of its kind.
“The Diaman/NDTC partnership with Physically Active Youth began in 2019, with the renovation of the kitchen, toilet, computer room, library and eating area, as well as the fencing off of the premises to make them safer and more secure,” Shilunga said.
She further explained that additional funding was provided to make sure that the daily feeding, sports and academic programs continue for six months as well as the refurbishment of the office and new tables and benches were also provided previously.
“Today we are here to officially handover the funding for 2023 that is a joint contribution from Diaman and NDTC that will go towards securing a vehicle for transporting learners to sport and camps, phase two of the centre renovations that will see the garden revamped, as well as providing the additional furniture for the creative lab and math room,” Shilunga explained.
Part of the support will also ensure the efficient operations of the centre, as well as support with internet, computers and learning resources for the ICT and Robotics programme.
