The Namibia Institute of Pathology (NIP) is focusing on building a competent workforce through the expansion of its Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and Graduate Development initiatives.

Starting from 2021, NIP has consistently expanded its WIL programs, offering training to a cumulative total of 216 students, with an estimated enrollment of 49 students for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The organization has also shown a significant financial dedication to these efforts, allocating around N$2.2 million to its Graduate Development Programs to assist 14 graduates.

An extra N$921,000 has been allocated to the Internship Program to assist interns. These numbers highlight NIP’s commitment to corporate social investment and its contribution to training upcoming professionals for the job market.

Academic study offers the theoretical base; internships transform that base into hands-on experience.

expertise. Through placing students in actual work environments, internships facilitate the transition to

interactions in the work environment and the growth of key abilities.

As stated by Ms. Niita Evaristus, Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer, “The advantages of the graduate program go beyond personal growth and include wider organizational impacts.”

benefits. By connecting with new talent, NIP gets the opportunity to engage a group of young, energetic people

who offer new viewpoints, expertise in technology, and a passion for creativity.” These graduates act as

drivers of higher efficiency, exchange of expertise, and enhancement of capabilities inside the company,

encouraging an environment focused on ongoing education and development.

Evaristus added that “NIP has established important academic collaborations to enhance education and”

training enhancement. Specifically, we entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Namibia (UNAM) to create pathology training and medical scientist expertise within the nation.

The newly introduced NIP’s Medical Innovation Hub, in partnership with the University of Science and Technology (NUST), will focus on the importance of developing capabilities, enhancing staff skills, and providing work-integrated learning for students. This groundbreaking project to manufacture sample tubes seeks to boost local expertise and long-term healthcare solutions in Namibia and the broader SADC region once manufacturing is expanded.

In July 2024, NIP became the fifth corporate partner of the Mobile Telecommunication Company (MTC) National Internship Programme, donating N$300,000 to increase the number of internship opportunities. These programs go beyond laboratory sciences and also cover areas like IT, Communications, and Human Resources.