The University of Namibia has, for the second year running, won Best Exhibit in the Education & Training Institutions category at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair (OATF). The 2025 fair opened on Friday, 22 August and concluded on Saturday, 30 August.
UNAM’s longstanding presence at OATF reflects its alumni footprint in the north and ties with surrounding communities. The platform also strengthens connections with former students who drive word-of-mouth referrals.
“This back-to-back win affirms the relevance of our offering and the energy of our teams,” said Linus Hamunyela, Communications and Marketing Officer for UNAM’s Northern Campuses. “OATF is where prospective students get timely practical guidance on study choices, online applications and financial enquiries.”
This year’s stand highlighted farm produce from Ogongo Campus, rice, dairy products, white beans, fresh tomatoes and Oluthima (rice and mahangu flour), demonstrating research-to-market impact.
“Ogongo’s farm enterprise is a living laboratory,” noted Dr Christopher Mberema, Campus Director: Ogongo Campus. “Students learn by doing, and communities benefit from resilient, locally suited products.”
Innovation from the José Eduardo dos Santos Campus (JEDS) drew strong interest, including a solar–wind hybrid system, a UNAM-built drone detection system, 3D-printing , road-materials testing instruments, a UNAM-designed planter and metallurgical process-control equipment.
“These prototypes show engineering translated into solutions for infrastructure, food security and industry,” said Prof Petrina Johannes, Campus Director: JEDS. “We are preparing graduates who can analyse, design and build for Namibia’s future.”
Throughout the week, UNAM teams offered on-the-spot career advice and handled general enquiries, including guidance on gap years. The recognition underscores UNAM’s commitment to community-centred higher education.
