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.

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.

At the University of Namibia’s Hifikepunye Pohamba (HP) Campus, student leadership often emerges not from the loudest voices, but from those willing to do the quiet work. Olavi Lazarus is one such name, a fourth-year student who steadily built his leadership path from the ground up.

Born and raised in the Oshikoto Region, Olavi completed his high school at Reverend Juuso Shikongo Senior Secondary School. He enrolled at UNAM with modest beginnings and a passion for science education. But it was his quiet willingness to serve that set him apart.

His leadership journey began in 2022 when he served as a Student Assistant, an often-unnoticed role. That same year, he was elected Class Representative, a position he treated not as symbolic, but as a serious opportunity to represent and uplift.

By 2023, Olavi stepped into a bigger role as the SRC for Academic Affairs at HP Campus, advocating for student learning conditions, equity, and support, especially during post-COVID adjustments. “Leadership is not about noise or position. It’s about presence. Show up for others, even when no one’s watching,” says Olavi.

In 2024, he was elected to two positions concurrently: SRC Vice President for HP Campus and SRC Deputy President for the entire University of Namibia, representing all 12 campuses. His leadership expanded to national policy conversations through his role in the executive of the National African Students Association (NASA), serving until April 2025.

Choose yourself

Despite his rising influence, Olavi returned to HP Campus SRC in 2025, taking on a rare second term as Vice President. His re-election reflected a strong trust in his leadership from the student body.

“Olavi was always alert, dependable, and grounded in service. He didn’t wait for perfect conditions, he stepped up,” notes Mr. Walter Hangula, Student Leadership Development Officer at HP Campus.

After completing his studies, Olavi will be a science teacher. But more than that, he mentors. He encourages his learners to dream beyond their limitations and lead with heart.

“To any student out there,” says Olavi, “leadership starts with raising your hand, volunteering, showing up, speaking for others. Don’t wait to be chosen. Choose yourself.”

Olavi’s story is a timely reminder that student leadership is about more than titles, it’s about courage, consistency, and being willing to rise, and in rising, lifting others with you.

A momentous occasion unfolded at UNAM’s Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus in Ongwediva on 15 November 2024, as former President Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba launched his historical autobiography, Ondjila Eyi Aenda (The Footprints of Hifikepunye Pohamba).

The event brought together learners, student teachers, educators, government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and community members to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Namibia’s most iconic leaders.

Dignitaries, including retired Emeritus Bishops Apollos Kaulinge and Josephat Shanghala, renowned author Tatekulu Abednego Lesheni Nghifikua, Oshana Governor Elia Irimari, and Police Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sakaria, joined learners from local schools and UNAM students to honour the former President’s contributions to Namibia’s history and education.

The more than 400-page autobiography, a labour of over five years, is the result of a collaborative effort between the former President and Professor Ellen Ndeshi Namhila, UNAM’s Pro Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance.

The book recounts Pohamba’s journey from his humble beginnings in Okanghudi village in the Ohangwena Region to his pivotal role in Namibia’s liberation struggle and eventual presidency.

Reflecting on the challenges of chronicling such a rich history, Professor Namhila noted: “We are talking about a memory spanning over 70 years. Tatekulu Pohamba’s life has been one of purpose, marked by struggle, resilience, and a deep commitment to freedom. Despite enduring beatings, imprisonment, and suffering, his spirit remained unbroken, dedicated to liberating Namibia and securing a brighter future for its people.”

In his remarks, Former President Dr. Pohamba expressed gratitude to UNAM for renaming the former Ongwediva College of Education in his honour and presenting his book to the community for educational purposes.

He urged young Namibians to engage deeply with the autobiography: “This book, Ondjila Eyi Aenda, seeks to deepen our understanding of Namibia’s historic efforts for freedom. I encourage our young generation to read it closely, draw lessons, and find insights that relate to their own lives and our nation’s future progress. Writing this book is an extension of the struggle – a way to educate, connect, and stay close to the people’s needs, sharing both good and challenging times.”

Proceeds from the book, priced at N$490, will support the Hifikepunye Pohamba Foundation’s scholarship programme, which funds students pursuing agriculture studies, with the goal of ensuring food security in Namibia. Over 70 copies were sold at the launch, with funds directly benefiting this noble cause.

Mr. Armas Joseph, a student teacher who attended the event, shared his excitement: “Witnessing this historic moment was inspiring. Hearing the Former President speak about his life and lessons gave me a sense of purpose as a future educator. The book will not only preserve our history but also motivate us to make meaningful contributions to Namibia’s future.”

The event highlighted the Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus’s vital role as a centre for education and community development. It also reinforced UNAM’s promise to preserving Namibia’s history while fostering opportunities for future generations.

In a continued effort to address critical health issues and empower students, the University of Namibia’s Northern Campuses – Hifikepunye Pohamba (HP), José Eduardo dos Santos (JEDS), Oshakati and Ogongo – hosted two key events in September 2024.

The Directorate of Student Affairs, through its Careers & Student Experiences Office, in collaboration with Student Counsellors and Peer Educators, organised a Cancer Awareness & Prevention event on 12 September, followed by a Sexual Reproductive Health Forum under the Empower Her Series on 14 September.

The Cancer Awareness event, held at the Oshakati Campus Main Hall, aimed to raise awareness about cervical, breast, and prostate cancers.

Students were educated about early detection, prevention strategies, and the importance of regular screenings in improving cancer survival rates.

Specialist doctors from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, along with survivors sharing their personal stories, made the event particularly impactful.

“It’s important that we create platforms where students can learn about these diseases and take proactive steps for their health,” said Ms. Ina Asino, Student Counsellor at Oshakati Campus.

She Cares and Man2Man Initiatives gain momentum

Two days later, the Empower Her Series focused on promoting safe environments and well-being for female students, with discussions on sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and the challenges faced by young mothers in academia.

Ms. Genesia Shipena, Student Counsellor at Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus, stated, “This forum is not just about information; it’s about creating a supportive environment where our young women can thrive despite the challenges they face.”

These initiatives tie into the 2023 launch of the She Cares and Man2Man initiatives, which focus on empowering female students and promoting healthy masculinity respectively.

The She Cares initiative, which includes the Young and Expecting Mothers (YEM) Project, offers resources and support to help young mothers balance academic and personal responsibilities.

“The Man2Man initiative, launched alongside She Cares in 2023, aims to redefine masculinity, encouraging men to address mental health and break away from toxic societal norm,” expressed Ms Asino.

Through these events, the Directorate of Student Affairs continues to create an inclusive and supportive environment, addressing the holistic needs of students across the northern campuses.

The Save the Earth from A to Z (ASEZ) group recently organised a highly successful cleanup campaign at the Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus in Ongwediva, reaffirming their dedication to creating a cleaner and healthier world. ASEZ, a student volunteer group affiliated with the World Mission Society Church of God, operates globally, including a centre in Ongwediva. Over the years, ASEZ has quietly yet diligently worked to make a significant environmental impact.

The ASEZ University Student Volunteer Group focuses on providing environmental relief in the wake of natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and climate-related catastrophes. The group also addresses the aftermath of terrorist attacks and wars, recognising that the solutions to these global challenges lie with young adults and university students – the leaders of future generations.

“The motto of the student volunteer group is both profound and inspiring: ‘We have the power to change present despair into future hope and current frustration into future happiness. The power of one person is limited, but if we all work together to solve the problems that each campus faces, humanity’s hopeful future will soon become a reality,’” stated Jimmy Shapopi, a Lecturer at the Ogongo Campus and an active participant in the campaign.

At the end of July, the campus welcomed ASEZ international colleagues from South Korea, whose presence greatly boosted the confidence of all students, both ASEZ members and others. The participation of international volunteers underscored global solidarity and a shared commitment to environmental preservation. The cleanup campaign began in the morning, and within just two hours, volunteers have collected over 70 bags of litter, significantly reducing illegal dumping from the surrounding community.

The foundation of the ASEZ group is deeply rooted in the teachings of Heavenly Mother, who emphasises, “You are the light of the world and salt of the earth. When individuals change, their surroundings change, societies change, and ultimately the world changes,” shared Lim Hyun Young, a member of ASEZ.

The ASEZ group continues to inspire and lead by example, demonstrating that through collective effort, we can make a profound difference in our world.

Delight is a Science Communication intern currently pursuing her 2nd year in a Bachelor of Science in Physics (Mathematics) (Honours).