EU–Namibia Celebrate International Youth Day with Dance, Creativity and Team Spirit

EU-Namibia Celebrate International Youth Day with Dance, Creativity and Team Spirit

The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Namibia, in partnership with five resident EU Member States' Embassies and the Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO), celebrated International Youth Day 2025 yesterday with a vibrant and joyful event at the Havana High School, in the heart of Katutura with over 100 young people, joining the celebration.

Honorary Dino Balloti, Deputy Minister of Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture officiated the event and urged youth to realise their potential, as the future nurses, doctors, ministers and even president of Namibia are among them. The Deputy Minister joined the EU Ambassador to Namibia, H.E. Ana Beatriz Martins, on the dance floor in a show of our EU - Namibia Partnership that works, together with Team Europe.

The celebration was marked by a spirited dance competition, giving Namibian youth a platform to showcase their creativity, energy and passion. Eight schools from the Khomas Region delivered powerful performances, making the competition a memorable highlight of the day. Top honours went to Concordia College in first place, A. Shipena in second place and SOS Children (aka "Super Star") in third place. Other participating schools included Immanuel Shifidi SS, People's Primary School, Ella du Plessis SS, Sunshine Private College and Havana High School.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Martins said:

"Today, through dance, we celebrate the power of self-expression, cultural exchange and the magic that happens when young minds and talents come together. More importantly, we honour you, the youth of Namibia and encourage you to take your full place in shaping our societies, driving social innovation, challenging inequalities and making change happen. Empowered youth are the cornerstone of any free, democratic and prosperous society."

She further highlighted that the European Union and Namibia share a strong partnership that puts youth at the heart of development. The EU's Youth Sounding Board ensures young Namibian voices shape the EU's policy and development programmes that will shape their future.

Media Contact:

Twaku Kayofa

Press and Communication Officer

EU Delegation to Namibia

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +264 61 202 6247