In a strong show of regional collaboration, Oshakati Campus, Jose Eduardo Dos Santos (JEDS) Campus and Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus have joined forces to champion the University of Namibia’s Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP) 2025-2030. This unified engagement reflects a deliberate shift toward greater alignment across the campuses.
Held from 09 – 11 March, the tri-campus engagement went beyond coordination. It created a shared platform for academic leaders, staff and student leaders to collectively reflect on how the ISBP’s four strategic themes can be implemented to respond to community needs.
Building on this shared direction, Prof. Frednard Gideon, the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to the highest standards of academic excellence. He highlighted the growing importance of flexible learning pathways, including online and blended modes of study, making quality education more accessible to people from all walks of life.
Modern Engineering Solutions for Real-World Impact
Prof. Johnson Oluwagbenga, JEDS Campus Director, and Associate Dean: School of Engineering & the Built Environment, outlined an ambitious vision that moves engineering education beyond theory into tangible community impact.
“Our mission is to provide transformative engineering education, conduct cutting-edge research, and foster collaborative innovation that delivers sustainable development solutions,” he said.
Prof. Oluwagbenga emphasised the integration of emerging digital competencies such as artificial intelligence, automation, simulation and data analytics into curriculum ensuring well rounded graduates.
“Students will tackle projects addressing critical regional needs, from water harvesting to renewable energy solutions. This hands-on approach ensures graduates emerge equipped with both technical expertise and practical problem-solving capabilities,” Prof. Oluwagbenga noted.
Shared Ownership, Collective Success
The emphasis on societal impact is echoed across the northern Campuses. Prof. Jacob Sheehama, Campus Director for both Hifikepunye Pohamba and Oshakati campuses, underscored the importance of collective ownership in implementing the ISBP.
“We have to ensure that shared ownership of all faculties, schools and programs is embedded within all our team members,” he said.
He further highlighted the campuses’ role in advancing knowledge, promoting cultural expression and contributing meaningfully to Namibia’s socio-economic development.
The collaborative model extends beyond the three campuses, with plans to share successful innovations across UNAM’s broader network, demonstrating the connectedness in educational transformation.
By pooling resources, expertise and institutional knowledge, the campuses are creating a model that strengthens not only their individual capacities but also the University as a whole. In doing so, they are positioning the ISBP as more than a guiding document, but as a living framework that drives meaningful change across all UNAM campuses.
