The 2022 official opening ceremony held at the Hage Geingob campus on 9 March 2022, has set the stage for the university’s upcoming 30th anniversary and what it means to be an engaged university.
This year marks 30 years of the University’s existence since its inception in August 1992. It also symbolizes 30 years of dedication to the university mandate that strives to push the frontiers of science and solve societal problems.
Addressing a full auditorium of academics and students, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kenneth Matengu explained what sets the University of Namibia (UNAM) apart from other universities.
“We are an engaged university. We push the frontiers of science and we dedicate time and resources to solve societal problems. Our ability to respond and contribute to the achievement of national and global development goals is clear”, explained Matengu.
At 30, UNAM has embarked on key development projects that address food security, sustainable development, climate action, good health and well-being. These projects include the University’s flagship programme in Veterinary Medicine that specializes in domestic and wild animals, pioneering research on seed production, the establishment of a state-of-the-art virology lab, Veterinary Academic Teaching Hospital, Namibia Green Hydrogen Research Institute, and the Dental Clinic facility, amongst others.
Prof. Matengu further remarked that he remains confident and determined to take the university to higher heights. He also called upon every staff and student and other support to continue with the creation of UNAM we envisioned – beyond 30.
“I know as a community, we have the highest concentration of human capital in the country to think critically, innovatively, and solve our challenges. There is nothing we cannot achieve, if we set our minds to it, and work together. I know many of you already work hard, but let us re-dedicate ourselves to build this institution for generations to come,” he explained.
This call, according to Prof. Matengu is for the UNAM community to dedicate themselves to the mandate and task of producing competent human resources capable of transforming humanity and impacting economies nationally and internationally.
The Vice-Chancellor also paid tribute to his predecessors: Prof. Peter Katjavivi and Prof. Lazarus Hangula for their continued efforts, for what was once the Academy for Tertiary Education, that has now become the largest instrument for social change, human capital development, research, innovation, and development in Namibia with about 30 000 students and +- 2 500 employees.
Delivering the Alumnus address, UNAM Alumni and Oxford graduate, Dr Ndjodi Ndeunyema encouraged students to see their time at university as a period for discovery, self-improvement and unlocking their potential.
“Studying at an institution that is as historic, tradition-filled, well-resourced, and full of intellectual greats as Oxford is a great honour and privilege. However, I genuinely believe that I have only been able to achieve that which I have achieved at Oxford because of the solid, quality education that I received during my UNAM days,” explained Dr Ndeunyema.
Also addressing the audience was the UNAM Registrar, Prof. Erika Maass, who welcomed and encouraged students to stay level-headed as they traverse through University and shared tips on having a successful academic life span. Prof. Frednard Gideon, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, ended the event with a warm vote of thanks.
2nd year Bachelor of Arts in Library and Information Science student, Shihepo Elizabeth, who watched the event online disclosed that it is amazing that she gets to be a part of such an excellent institution.
“I will study hard, give it my all, and play my part in contributing to the success of UNAM, even if my contribution is just passing my course well and hopefully becoming a contributing member of society,” she stated ecstatically.
Original Article by: Lydia Sageus
