On 25 August 2022, the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade, through its Directorate of Industrial Development as the national focal point for the National Ozone Unit (NOU), successfully hosted the International Ozone Day commemoration at the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre (WVTC).

The event brought together government officials, technical experts, educators, trainees, industry representatives, and other key stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the ozone layer and promoting environmentally responsible industrial practices. International Ozone Day, observed globally, serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard the ozone layer for present and future generations.

In her opening remarks, a representative from the Ministry emphasized Namibia’s continued commitment to international environmental agreements, particularly the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The Directorate of Industrial Development highlighted the role of the National Ozone Unit in coordinating national efforts to phase out ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and promote the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives across various industrial sectors.

The Windhoek Vocational Training Centre was selected as the host venue in recognition of the critical role that vocational education and training institutions play in developing skilled technicians who are environmentally conscious and equipped to implement sustainable practices. Trainees in fields such as refrigeration and air-conditioning were encouraged to adopt best practices that minimize environmental harm, including proper handling and disposal of refrigerants.

The programme featured informative presentations on ozone layer protection, climate change linkages, and the progress Namibia has made in complying with international environmental obligations. Participants were also educated on the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to ozone- and climate-friendly technologies, particularly within the manufacturing, refrigeration, and industrial sectors.

Interactive sessions allowed trainees and stakeholders to engage directly with experts from the National Ozone Unit, fostering dialogue on challenges and opportunities in implementing ozone-friendly technologies at grassroots and institutional levels. Educational materials were distributed to reinforce key messages and promote continued awareness beyond the event.

The commemoration concluded with a call for strengthened collaboration between government, training institutions, and industry to ensure sustained compliance with environmental regulations and to build national capacity in green industrial development. Hosting International Ozone Day at WVTC underscored the importance of integrating environmental sustainability into technical training curricula and daily industrial practices.

The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection, sustainable industrial growth, and skills development, as Namibia continues to contribute to global efforts aimed at preserving the ozone layer.