Empowering the next generation: Youth to take the spotlight at Namibia Oil and Gas Conference 2025

Namibia’s unstoppable rise as a powerhouse in Africa’s energy sector makes inclusive, future-focused strategies not just important but absolutely essential. It’s within this context that the upcoming Namibia Oil and Gas Conference (NOGC 2025), set for 12–15 August in Windhoek, takes on even greater significance, as it not only highlights investment and policy but also places strong emphasis on youth development as a critical pillar for the sector’s long-term sustainability.

In a landmark move, the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN), host of the event, has announced the Future Generations Masterclass—a dedicated half-day programme designed to inspire, prepare and empower Namibia’s next generation of oil and gas professionals. This initiative, developed in partnership with the Namibia Youth Energy Forum (NYEF), highlights the conference’s commitment to creating inclusive growth pathways within the energy sector.

The masterclass will provide students, recent graduates, and young entrepreneurs with a structured platform to explore career opportunities in the emerging oil and gas industry. It will also enable direct engagement with seasoned professionals, technical experts, and policymakers.

“This partnership is more than symbolic—it’s a strategic investment in Namibia’s energy future,” says Fanuel Shinedima, Founder of the Namibia Youth Energy Forum. “Together, we are unlocking doors for young Namibians to lead, innovate, and thrive. The Future Generations Masterclass is a launchpad for bold ideas and bold leadership. We’re not just preparing talent—we’re shaping trailblazers.”

Namibia Oil and Gas Conference 2025

This Future Generations Masterclass features an exciting two-part programme that covers leadership strategies, technical skills development and career progression in the first session. The second session focuses on mentorship with inspirational talks from experienced industry professionals who will share their career journeys and offer practical advice and real-world perspectives on forging a path to success.

This targeted youth support is particularly critical given Namibia’s recent offshore discoveries and the increasing investor interest that has thrust the country into the spotlight and made skilled local talent a national priority.

Jason Kasuto, Chairperson of the Economic Association of Namibia, added, “This youth participation is vital, which is why we’ve ensured the event is affordable for students and young entrepreneurs. We’re offering access to industry masterclasses, exhibitions and a dedicated B2B session to ensure meaningful engagement and opportunities for professional growth, aligning with the broader goal of empowering the next generation in Namibia’s energy future.”

Running under the theme “From Exploration to Action – Positioning Namibia as the Next Energy Frontier,” NOGC 2025 is expected to host over 1000 international investors, policymakers, and industry experts from more than 50 countries. The year’s event, which is expected to be the best edition yet, also offers an expanded exhibition space, high-level panel discussions, and strategic networking sessions. The youth-focused programming reinforces the conference’s holistic approach to sector development.

Hosted by EAN in collaboration with the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Hanns Seidel Foundation, plus strategic partners NAMCOR, SNC Incorporated and Rhino Resources, and endorsed by the Ministry of Mines and Energy, NOGC 2025 stands as a critical platform for aligning Namibia’s energy ambitions with inclusive and sustainable development.