3. Full Day Programme (30 October 2024):
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Industry Professionals: Managers, HR directors, and other professionals responsible for workforce development in the wholesale and retail sector should attend to learn about the latest research and innovations that can be applied to their organizations. This is a chance to gain practical insights into how digital disruption and the future of work will impact their businesses.
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C-Suite Executives: CEOs, COOs, and other senior executives from leading wholesale and retail companies, policymakers, and industry innovators should attend.
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Academic Researchers and Students: Researchers and students, particularly those focused on applied research, should attend to present their findings and engage with industry professionals. This interaction is key for ensuring their research is relevant and impactful within the industry.
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Training Providers and Consultants: Organizations that provide training and development services to the sector should attend to showcase their offerings and learn about new industry needs. This is an opportunity to align their programmes with the latest industry trends and ensure they are meeting the sector’s evolving demands.
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Policymakers and Government Agencies: Representatives from government agencies involved in education, skills development, and economic planning should attend to gather insights that will inform policy and programme development. Their participation ensures that government initiatives are well-informed and effectively support the sector’s growth and transformation.
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International Delegates: Representatives from international organizations, including those from Namibia’s Training Authority and other global partners, should attend to share insights and explore cross-border collaborations. Their presence will enhance the conference’s global perspective and contribute to the international exchange of ideas and best practices.
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SETAs and Cluster Representatives: Officials from various SETAs, particularly those involved in the services cluster, should attend to present their contributions to skills development and workforce readiness. This is also a chance to collaborate with educational institutions and explore joint initiatives that address sector-specific challenges.
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Government and Policymakers: Senior officials from the Department of Higher Education, Science and Technology, as well as other relevant government departments, should attend to gain insights into the research that informs policy development. Their presence ensures that the research findings and educational advancements are aligned with national strategies and contribute to broader socio-economic goals.
2. Gala Dinner (29 October 2024):
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C-Suite Executives: CEOs, COOs, and other senior executives from leading wholesale and retail companies should attend to network with academic leaders, policymakers, and industry innovators. This event is ideal for building strategic partnerships and discussing high-level industry trends and challenges in a more intimate setting.
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Government Ministers and Senior Officials: Key policymakers, including the Minister and Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, should attend to engage with industry leaders and academics on the sector's strategic direction. Their involvement is critical for ensuring that policy initiatives are informed by industry needs and academic research.
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Research Chairs and Academic Leaders: Senior academics and research leaders should attend to present their research outcomes and engage in discussions with industry and government representatives. This is an opportunity to showcase the impact of their research on the sector and to secure further support for ongoing and future projects.
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Strategic Partners and Sponsors: Representatives from organizations that sponsor or collaborate with W&RSETA, including those in related industries or sectors, should attend to strengthen their partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration. Their participation underscores their commitment to the sector’s development and innovation.