New science hub to open in Katutura

Patience Makwele The City of Windhoek has signed an agreement with the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) to establish a science, technology and innovation centre in Katutura. The agreement was signed on Friday and sets out plans to build the centre at the UN Plaza Community Complex. Windhoek Mayor Sakarias Uunona said the project aims to link science with community needs. “This is not merely about signing a document. It is about forging a future where science and society intersect and where young people are empowered to innovate solutions to real challenges facing their communities,” Uunona said. Uunona said the centre could help reduce inequality by giving young people access to opportunities. “Imagine young entrepreneurs developing solutions for our food systems or creating technologies that improve service delivery,” he said. The centre will focus on science, technology and entrepreneurship. It will offer programmes, maker spaces and labs for young people. Under the agreement, the City of Windhoek will provide and renovate the building. NCRST will manage the centre for an initial five-year period. City chief executive officer Moses Matyayi said the project will bring innovation closer to communities. “We are taking innovation out of institutions and placing it directly into communities. This centre will give young people the tools to create, experiment and build solutions that improve their lives and the city at large,” Matyayi. NCRST chief executive officer Anicia Peters said the project supports national development goals. “At its core, this partnership is about democratising access to science and innovation. We are ensuring that knowledge is not confined to policy documents or institutions but becomes accessible and impactful at the community level,” Peters stated. The centre will also support small businesses, research and skills development. It will also host programmes linked to urban challenges such as waste and food systems. Construction and refurbishment of the facility are expected to begin in the coming months. Residents welcomed the project but raised concerns about implementation. A 45-year-old Windhoek resident, Teresa Nailonga, said access will be important. “If this centre is accessible, it could really change how young people see their future, especially those who feel left out of university or formal systems,” she said. Another resident, Tobias !Garoeb said the centre could support local innovation. “If this centre provides that, then it’s not just a building; it becomes a launchpad.” “As young people, we are ready. Now we need the system to meet us halfway,” he added. Meanwhile Maria Kandjii, who resides close to UN Plaza, said delivery will matter. “What matters is whether this one will truly benefit our children and not just be something we hear about in speeches.” Youth activist Samuel Amukweya said access must remain open. “If it’s affordable, open and relevant to township realities, then it will work.” A Katutura-based teacher Anna Shikongo who attended the event said the centre could support learning. “This could complement what we do in classrooms and inspire more students to pursue STEM careers.” Residents said the project could have impact if implemented well.