The University of Namibia (UNAM) is elevating its promise to quality maternal and newborn care through a thriving partnership with Idaho State University (ISU), now in its sixth year.
This collaboration, which began with a sabbatical visit by Prof. Jonathan Cree to UNAM, has blossomed into a dynamic programme that is transforming midwifery education across the country.
Supported by a major philanthropic contribution of $150,000 (about N$2.7 million) from Dr. Rebecca Kinney’s Beckon Foundation, the partnership enables ongoing delivery of Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) and Helping Baby Breathe (HBB) training.
In May and June 2025, three intensive training sessions were rolled out, engaging UNAM’s midwifery staff, students, and experienced midwives from major hospitals, including Katutura State and Windhoek Central.
A key innovation in the latest round of training was a dedicated session for staff who had previously qualified as ALSO providers. Held from 09 – 10 June 2025 at the Weinberg Hotel Conference Centre in Windhoek, this session equipped instructors to independently deliver ALSO and HBB training going forward, securing the sustainability of the programme within Namibia.
“The strength of this partnership lies in building local capacity,” said Prof. Judith Hall, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences & Veterinary Medicine. “We’re not just training midwives, we’re empowering educators who will multiply this knowledge for years to come. It’s an investment that will yield life-saving returns.”
Prof. Jonathan Cree (MD), Emeritus Professor of Family Medicine, ISU, highlighted, “Training staff as independent instructors ensures these critical skills are embedded within Namibia’s healthcare system. This is how real change is sustained.”
Ms. Ingenesia Tjiurutue, Head of the Midwifery Department: “Thanks to the support of the Beckon Foundation, we now have state-of-the-art simulation equipment, including intubation models, laryngoscope sets, and the innovative Butterfly IQ ultrasound device. Integrating these resources into our classroom and clinical training means our graduates are better prepared than ever to respond to real-life emergencies.”
Since the training started in 2024, the collaboration aims to enhance midwifery training at UNAM, develop skilled instructors, and support WHO efforts to reduce maternal deaths, especially from postpartum haemorrhage, through advanced, hands-on education.
Ms. Helena Nuumbosho, Training Focal Person & Lecturer for Advanced Midwifery & Neonatal Nursing Care: “By bringing together an advanced curriculum, hands-on simulation, and strong local faculty leadership, this partnership between UNAM and ISU is helping Namibia overcome persistent challenges such as postpartum haemorrhage and neonatal resuscitation. It’s a powerful example of sustainable, high-impact professional development that truly improves the lives of mothers and newborns across our country.”
