For Etuhole Fimanekeni Tweufilwa, a fourth-year student at the University of Namibia pursuing a Bachelor of Education majoring in English and Oshikwanyama, 2024 was a year of transformation.
On 01 April, she embarked on a 4.5-month exchange programme at Pädagogische Hochschule Weingarten in Germany, where she absorbed herself in a world of academic enrichment, cultural exploration, and personal growth.
Reflecting on her time in Weingarten, Etuhole describes it as nothing short of life-changing. “The courses I took at PH Weingarten were not only enriching but closely aligned with what I study at UNAM,” she shared. “This made the transition seamless while allowing me to gain new perspectives on my chosen field.”
One of the highlights of her stay was an internship at Talschule, a local primary school. Observing and participating in lessons, Etuhole gained valuable insights into German teaching methods and how creativity and technology can transform the classroom experience. “In Namibia, we often have limited resources in our classrooms, but this has taught me that creativity and interactive activities can make a huge difference,” she explained. “Whether using games, visuals, or group work, there are so many ways to make lessons engaging and impactful.”
More than an academic stint
The exchange programme was fully funded, offering Etuhole the financial freedom to focus on her studies and explore the vibrant cultural landscape of Germany. She formed friendships with peers from across the globe, broadening her understanding of cultural diversity and fostering connections she will cherish for a lifetime. “Being in a new environment taught me to stay flexible and open-minded,” she noted. “It was an opportunity to learn not just academically, but about life and different ways of thinking.”
Etuhole also credits the experience with helping her grow personally. Living independently in a foreign country required her to manage her time and responsibilities effectively, which, she says, boosted her confidence and self-reliance. “This journey helped me discover strengths I didn’t know I had,” she reflected. “It’s an experience I’ll carry with me forever.”
As she concludes her exchange journey, Etuhole has a message for her fellow students: “Exchange programmes like this are opportunities you should not miss. They enrich your academic journey, expose you to new cultures, and prepare you for the challenges of the future. I encourage every UNAM student to seize these chances and experience what I have.”
UNAM continues to provide students with fully sponsored exchange opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to fostering global connections and preparing students for a competitive world. For Etuhole, this programme was more than an academic stint, it was a gateway to growth, discovery and inspiration.
