Peer educators from Namibia’s higher education institutions gathered at the University of Namibia (UNAM) Southern Campus in Keetmanshoop for the 2026 Peer Educators Conference, held from 14–16 July 2026 under the theme “Empowered to Continue: Building Sustainable Peer Education for the Future.”
The conference brought together representatives from all 12 UNAM campuses, alongside NUST and IUM, as well as counsellors and partners including United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Namibia Planned Parenthood Association (NAPPA) and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC).
Welcoming participants, Dr Rauna Namukwambi, Acting Director of UNAM Southern Campus, highlighted the importance of collaboration and creating opportunities for peer educators to exchange experiences and strengthen student support across institutions.
Speaking on behalf of UNESCO, Mr Nolan Van Der Ross, National Project Officer for Education for Health and Wellbeing, emphasised the important position peer educators occupy within student communities.
“As peer educators, you are often the first people that fellow students turn to for information, support, guidance, or simply someone who will listen without judgement,” Van Der Ross said.
The conference addressed key student issues including mental health, emotional intelligence and resilience, suicide prevention, diversity and inclusion, digital intelligence, misinformation, responsible social media use, substance abuse and sustainable peer education.
Mr Nicolaas Eiman, Director from the Ministry, contributed to discussions on youth development and the importance of empowering young people to become active contributors to healthier and more supportive learning environments.
He encouraged participants to learn from experiences across institutions. “While each campus may face different challenges, many of the issues affecting students are shared, and there is a great deal we can learn from each other,” said Eiman
In the closing reflections, Mr Tangeni Velikoshi, Assistant Director for Career Services and Student Experience, encouraged participants to translate the knowledge and connections gained at the conference into meaningful initiatives on their campuses.
“Every conversation, every referral, every awareness activity, and every student supported has the potential to make a real difference in someone’s life,” Van Der Ross said.
The conference reinforced a shared commitment among UNAM, NUST, IUM and partner organisations to empower peer educators as important champions of student wellbeing and positive social change across Namibia’s higher education institutions.
