A Labour Law Certificate reshapes worker power and workplace negotiations in Namibia, and the impact is tangible across activist unions and frontline employees alike. Aune Mudjanima, deputy executive director of the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations, addressed Windhoek graduates, emphasizing that this credential strengthens workers’ capacity to defend rights and bargain for fair conditions. She highlighted that the certificate enables meaningful roles in collective bargaining and worker representation, calling the program a blueprint for progress accredited at Level 4 by the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA). According to Mudjanima, educated workers become stronger negotiators who can secure fair agreements and sustain a lineage of informed leadership. She noted that the programme is pioneering in Namibia’s labour market and urged graduates to continue lifting and guiding others.
The remarks coincided with a graduation ceremony for 173 graduates who completed the Labour Law Certificate. The milestone was organized by the Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) in collaboration with the Namibia Miners Investment Trust (NAMIT) and the Labour Resource and Research Institute (LaRRI). The event celebrated the fourth intake since February 2025, a cohort designed to deepen MUN members’ understanding of labour issues and to sharpen skills in labour legislation, dispute resolution, negotiation, and workplace representation. Of the 216 students registered, 173 completed all eight modules.
This initiative echoes a long-running tradition of worker education in Namibia. LaRRI, established in 1998, has progressively offered structured learning and research to support trade unions, evolving from informal workshops to accredited programmes in the 2000s. MUN itself traces its roots to colonial-era mining unions that battled harsh labour practices and has since channelled resources into education to develop knowledgeable and confident worker leaders.
MUN president Poco-Key Mberiuana praised the graduates and the organization’s collaboration with LaRRI. He stated that the graduates’ determination proves that an online course can be completed and that they are now equipped for leadership roles at branch and national levels. He urged graduates to put their qualifications into practice and share knowledge with peers.
Keynote speaker Professor Stephen Akoth urged graduates to safeguard workplace dignity and defend workers’ rights even in tough circumstances. Graduates shared how the training boosted their confidence and workplace capabilities. Andreas Akuunda, a multi-skilled operator at Namdeb, explained that the course helped him navigate disputes between management and employees, acknowledging that balancing study with work was challenging but worthwhile. Helga Scheffers, who returned to study after two decades, described the course as highly educational and said it empowered her to represent colleagues and build self-confidence. Petukeni Nikanor Sheefeni, a Namdeb boiler maker with 14 years of service, noted that the online format made studying more accessible.
