Namibia welcomed its first GIA (Gemological Institute of America) class, this month. The course, Rough Diamond Evaluation course was held from June 30-July 4, 2014, in the Afrikaans language, with instructor Koos Rademeyer. The course received a good participation and all students passed the class.

“Bringing practical education about diamonds closer to producing regions helps those communities develop more economic value,” said Crystall Nel, GIA business development manager. “The course – our first of its kind in Namibia – is part of our effort to bring more of the value of the global gem and jewelry industry to producing communities.”

The classroom in Okahandja, Namibia was held at the NamGem diamond cutting and polishing factory, and several notable industry members attended the Rough Diamond Evaluation graduation, including Kennedy Hamutenya, diamond commissioner of the Republic of Namibia; Christian Merkling, director of Africa for Lazare Kaplan International; Vallerie Aron, mayor of Okahandja, Namibia amongst others.

GIA has established its reach in sub-Saharan Africa since 2008, with two full-time laboratories and classes in Gaborone, Botswana and Johannesburg, South Africa; establishing partnerships with government agencies and universities; and maintaining a network of active alumni. Today, there are more than 900 alumni and two GIA Alumni Chapters in Africa.