In a ground-breaking collaboration, Namibia’s leading universities have come together to celebrate the Namibia Higher Education Day (NaHED). The event held on 08 August at UNAM Main Campus converged with partner universities NUST and IUM as well as the National Commission for Research, Science and Technology (NCRST).
This united front aims to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within Namibia’s higher education landscape focusing on improving the role, relevance, and impact of higher education in meeting Namibia’s current and future human capital, science, technology, and innovation needs.
In her address, Minister of Higher Education, Culture and Innovation, Dr Itah Kandjii-Murangi praised the presence of stakeholders such as the universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Government ministries and agencies, international partners as well as researchers and students.
“Your presence here signifies a unified determination to create an educational ecosystem that is responsive to the nation’s needs for the 21st century,” stated the Minister.
She further highlighted that the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in driving Namibia’s national development cannot be overemphasized, citing that: “It is through research and innovation that we can address some of the most pressing challenges facing our country, from healthcare to agriculture, to environmental sustainability.”
UNAM’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Kenneth Matengu extended a warm welcome to all partners and emphasised the importance of collaboration in higher education for a nation.
“Higher education serves two levels: the wisdom level that speaks to national philosophy – the mere reason why we educate the way that we do and the content level which is constituted by robust, dynamic, responsive and relevant curriculums,” he stated.
Prof Matengu reiterated the rebalancing of the human resource pyramid and ensuring quality assurance and training that aligns with the demands of a modern economy. By equipping graduates with the skills required for today’s job market, Namibia’s universities are playing a crucial role in fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce.
NaHED forms part of a series of activities leading up to the week-long RUFORUM conference slated for 12-16 August 2024 where Namibia’s three leading universities cooperate further.
IUM’s Founder and Chairman, Dr Namwandi remarked on the timeliness of this event highlighting the need for the education system to advance.
“Our educational systems must evolve. You would agree with me that inclusive development should be at the heart of our national goals. It is imperative that our educational institutions serve as catalysts for change and equitable growth.
This means providing access to quality education for all, regardless of background or socio-economic status. We should ensure that every Namibian has the opportunity to contribute and benefit from our national progress,” remarked Dr Namwandi.
NaHED represented a beacon of hope and progress, showcasing the collaborative effort among Namibia’s universities, ministries and other key stakeholders. The insights and resolutions that emerge play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s educational and economic future, promising a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow for Namibians young population.
