Here’s a bold statement: Namibia is taking a groundbreaking step to ensure its development initiatives actually create meaningful jobs, and it’s all thanks to a tech-driven training program that’s turning heads. But here’s where it gets controversial—while the approach seems promising, not everyone agrees on how to implement it effectively. As part of the UN Global Accelerator project, the International Labour Organization (ILO) recently facilitated a three-day technical training on Employment Impact Assessments (EmpIA) in Windhoek. This wasn’t just another workshop—it was a strategic move to empower government officials and social partners with the skills to assess how policies, investments, and projects truly impact job creation and inclusive growth. And this is the part most people miss: EmpIA isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for aligning employment strategies with real-world outcomes. But integrating it into national plans requires collaboration across sectors, and that’s where the real challenge lies. The training, part of the UN Joint Programme on Agri-systems Transformation and supported by the Republic of Korea, aimed to bridge this gap. Participants didn’t just learn theory—they engaged in group discussions to identify practical solutions, like establishing a dedicated EmpIA team within key ministries and partnering with institutions like the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) for specialized training. Here’s the kicker: While there was consensus on these steps, questions remain. Is a centralized EmpIA team enough to ensure consistent implementation? And how can Namibia balance local needs with international best practices? These are the debates that could shape the future of job creation in the country. What’s your take? Do you think this approach will work, or are there better ways to ensure policies lead to real jobs? Let’s discuss in the comments!