An event that celebrated Youth in Research and Technology, was recently held at UNAM. Although it was the first of its kind, it was well received by staff and students. The event honoured students and post-graduates contributing to the development of Namibia through research and technology.
The event was made possible by the generous sponsorship and support from Salt Essential Information Technology, Complete Enterprise Solutions and Green Enterprise Solutions.
Speaking at the event, Sonja Coetzer, Managing Director of Salt Essential Information Technology remarked that young people are behind the magic that’s happening in the world.
“The youth in Research and Technology are the answers to the questions our wise men and greybeards have not yet asked. Their solutions through innovation and technology are the experience in smart medicine, education, engineering, conservation and so many other fields”.
“They are our insulin, penicillin, our bridge, our internet, our future! Our youth is driving the magic happening in the world through science and technology” exclaimed Coetzer.
The event was graced by the presence of the Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation, Dr Itah Kandji-Murangi who echoed the same sentiments and commended UNAM and its partners.
“Involving youth in research is important because it encourages and allows young people to find out about the issues that interest and influence them, so that we can make positive changes. I wish to applaud the University of Namibia and partners, Salt IT Essentials, Green Technology Solutions and Complete Enterprise Systems, for initiating this event. It is highly commendable for institutions with the encouragement of their stakeholders to support youth to engage in research on issues of their interest,” emphasised Dr Kandji-Murangi.
Emma Kantema-Gaomas, Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Services delivered a speech of motivation to remind students and staff that their innovative potential combined with the power of technology is the force behind our development.
UNAM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kenneth Matengu, siad that “we need more youth in research and technology to secure success and reap the benefits of the 4th industrial revolution that is taking place right now”.
After the formalities, various researchers were invited to share their research journey, motivate and inspire other researchers to keep the passion and continue working towards the development of the country through research. UNAM also exhibited several of its innovative products and research output created by students.
Pro Vice Chancellor for Innovation and Development, Prof. Anicia Peters was the UNAM lead for this event. She had been on record emphasising that the University is moving towards being locally relevant and an engaged research-based University, where research is integrated into its teaching and learning curriculum, innovation and entrepreneurship pursuits whilst using technology as an enabler.
This will become an annual event of the University and more partners are invited to join the initiative.
