Exploring Diverse Issues in Namibia: From Employment Challenges to Academic Accreditation and Civic Engagement.

 Exploring Diverse Issues in Namibia: From Employment Challenges to Academic Accreditation and Civic Engagement.

Greetings, Uneducated Philosopher, and readers. As promised yesterday, I am here to answer questions. I apologize for the delay. Also, I would like to extend my apologies in advance if my responses are lengthy. I want to clarify that, while I usually identify as the Himbacracy Philosopher and refer to myself as Dr. of Wisdom, today, I will approach your questions from an academic perspective. As a scholar, I will strive to provide insightful answers to your queries. Additionally, I may pose some questions of my own for consideration. I will address your question as you posed it.

The questions were posed by a young man who goes by the name Uneducated Philosopher. He inquired about specific topics, and I have outlined the questions or objectives to address accordingly.

 

Here are his questions or objectives:

1. Namibian Employer demands 10 years of experience.

2. The NQA (Namibia Qualifications Authority) requires institutions to have students for accreditation. However, they strongly advise students against studying at institutions that lack accreditation.

3. The Election Commission of Namibia encourages all Namibian people to vote

4. Uneducated people are not considered when comes to employment in NAMIBIA

5. Police and Soldiers are not allowed to demonstrate because they have guns in NAMIBIA

 

1. Namibian Employer demands 10 years of experience.

Employers often ask for work experience in their recruitment criteria for several reasons:

1. Skills and Knowledge:

Relevant Expertise: Work experience helps employers gauge whether a candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. Previous experience in a similar role suggests that the candidate has already acquired the skills needed to perform well in the new position.

Industry Familiarity: Experience in a specific industry or sector can be valuable. It means the candidate is familiar with industry practices, regulations, and nuances, which can contribute to a smoother transition into the new role.

2. Performance Predictions:

Past Performance: The idea is that past performance is a good predictor of future performance. If a candidate has excelled in previous roles, there's a higher likelihood that they will perform well in the new position.

Reduced Training Time: Experienced candidates may require less training since they are already familiar with certain aspects of the job.

3. Problem-Solving and Adaptability:

Problem-Solving Skills: Work experience often involves overcoming challenges and solving problems. Employers believe that candidates with work experience are better equipped to handle unexpected issues that may arise on the job.

 Adaptability: The ability to adapt to different work environments and learn on the job is often developed through work experience.

4. Professionalism and Work Ethic:

  Workplace Etiquette: Having work experience demonstrates that a candidate is familiar with workplace etiquette, communication norms, and professional conduct.

 Work Ethic: Consistent work history can be an indicator of a strong work ethic and commitment to employment.

5. Network and References:

Professional Network: Individuals with work experience may have established a professional network, which can be beneficial to the employer.

References: Past employers can provide references that offer insights into a candidate's work habits, character, and performance.

6. Confidence in Decision-Making:

  Confidence in Hiring Decisions: Hiring managers may feel more confident in their decision to hire someone with a proven track record, reducing the perceived risk associated with bringing on a new employee.

While work experience is an important criterion, it's not the only one. Employers may also consider education, certifications, interpersonal skills, and cultural fit when making hiring decisions. In some cases, especially for entry-level positions, employers may prioritize potential and aptitude over extensive work experience.

According to the response provided above, there is nothing inherently wrong with the government having specific requirements. The issue arises when there is a disparity between the stated requirements and the practical implementation of those standards. To illustrate this point, consider a scenario where a job posting requests five years of work experience from a recent graduate. The concern here is that the education system may not equip students with the necessary practical skills during their studies.

For instance, students may graduate from secondary school and enter university without gaining practical skills. The education system may be based on a low-level Bloom's Taxonomy, and despite spending four years at the university, students might not acquire the practical knowledge expected of them. The argument is that the government system tends to adopt practices from the West without thoroughly researching their applicability to Namibian circumstances.

Furthermore, if the government is seeking graduates with prior work experience, there should be a corresponding effort to establish systems that provide students with practical experience while they are still studying. Ultimately, graduates are encouraged to utilize their skills to contribute to the country's improvement. Scholars have a responsibility to conduct research and educate politicians, especially since some politicians may lack relevant work experience, having been appointed based on political considerations rather than expertise.

2. The NQA (Namibia Qualifications Authority) requires institutions to have students for accreditation. However, they strongly advise students against studying at institutions that lack accreditation.

That was indeed a thoughtful question from a young person. I used to ponder the same question myself. I believe the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) may need to reconsider its accreditation requirements, particularly the stipulation that an institution must have students for a specific course it wishes to accredit. This raises the question: if the course is not accredited, where will the students come from? Additionally, the NQA advises against enrolment in institutions that lack accreditation.

3. The Election Commission of Namibia encourages all Namibian people to vote

It is crucial for all Namibians to exercise their right to vote. Therefore, it is highly commendable for the Electoral Commission to actively inform the public about the importance of participating in the electoral process. This outreach not only ensures that citizens are aware of their civic duty but also promotes a more informed and engaged electorate, contributing to the overall health of the democratic system.

4. Uneducated people are not considered when comes to employment in NAMIBIA

It's important to note that making generalizations about the employment practices regarding uneducated individuals can be complex and may vary across different sectors and employers. However, there are a few reasons why some employers may prefer or require certain levels of education in Namibia:

1. Job Requirements: Certain jobs may necessitate specific levels of education to ensure that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. For example, positions in specialized fields like healthcare, engineering, or finance may require a certain level of education to meet industry standards.

2. Skill and Knowledge Base: Education is often seen as a proxy for skills and knowledge. Employers may assume that individuals with higher levels of education have acquired a certain skill set and base of knowledge that is beneficial for the job.

3. Competitive Job Market: In competitive job markets, employers may use educational qualifications as one of the criteria to narrow down the pool of applicants. This can make the hiring process more efficient for employers, especially when dealing with a large number of applications.

4. Regulatory Requirements: Some professions or industries may have regulatory requirements that mandate a minimum level of education for certain roles. This is often to ensure public safety, compliance with industry standards, or the proper execution of professional duties.

5. Perceived Productivity and Adaptability: Employers might believe that individuals with higher education levels are more likely to be productive and adaptable in the rapidly changing work environment. Higher education can be associated with critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a capacity for learning.

It's crucial to recognize that the exclusion of uneducated individuals from employment opportunities can contribute to socio-economic disparities. Initiatives promoting skill development, vocational training, and alternative education paths can help bridge these gaps and provide more inclusive opportunities for all individuals, irrespective of their formal education levels. Additionally, some employers and industries may recognize the value of experience, skills, and potential in candidates, even if they don't meet traditional educational criteria.

5. Police and Soldiers are not allowed to demonstrate because they have guns in NAMIBIA

The reasons why police officers and soldiers typically do not engage in public demonstrations or protests are rooted in the principles of discipline, professionalism, and the nature of their roles. Here are some key factors:

1. Discipline and Chain of Command:

Hierarchy: Police officers and soldiers operate within a strict chain of command. Demonstrating against higher authorities or government policies could be seen as a breach of discipline and insubordination.

Command Structure: In both law enforcement and the military, maintaining order and discipline is essential. Public demonstrations, especially those critical of the government or policies, might be perceived as conflicting with the established command structure.

2. Political Neutrality:

Impartiality: Police officers and soldiers are expected to remain politically neutral and serve the interests of the government or society as a whole. Engaging in public demonstrations could compromise their perceived impartiality and professionalism.

3. Maintaining Public Trust:

Public Confidence: Law enforcement and military organizations strive to maintain public trust. Engaging in protests might be viewed as a conflict of interest or a demonstration of divided loyalties, potentially eroding public confidence.

4. Professionalism:

Code of Conduct: Police officers and soldiers adhere to a strict code of conduct and professional standards. Demonstrating in public may be considered unprofessional and could undermine the public's perception of these institutions.

5. Alternative Channels for Concerns:

Internal Processes: Police officers and soldiers typically have internal mechanisms for addressing grievances or concerns. These channels are designed to allow members to voice their opinions or seek redress within the established framework.

6. Security Concerns:

National Security: Engaging in public demonstrations, especially for those responsible for maintaining law and order or national defence, could pose security risks. It might be seen as a vulnerability that could be exploited by those seeking to disrupt operations.

7. Legal Constraints:

Restrictions on Political Activity: In some countries, laws and regulations may place restrictions on the political activities of public servants, including police officers and military personnel. Participating in public demonstrations could violate these restrictions.

While public servants like police officers and soldiers may not participate in public demonstrations in their official capacities, they still have rights as private citizens. In some instances, members of law enforcement or the military may express their personal views or engage in civic activities outside of their official roles, but this is often subject to specific regulations and guidelines.

The Himbacracy Philosopher