Nine students from the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) School of Education are currently in Austria, participating in an enriching student mobility programme funded by the Erasmus Staff and Student Mobility Fund. This prestigious opportunity emphasises UNAM’s promise to providing global exposure and developing the educational experience for its students.
The exchange was made possible through an existing agreement between UNAM’s Department of Applied Educational Sciences (DAES) and the University College for Teacher Education in Vienna, Austria. The collaboration focuses on advancing educational research, staff and student exchange programmes, and joint seminars.
In early 2024, DAES called for applications from third-year students interested in the Erasmus student mobility programme. After a rigorous selection process that saw over 50 applicants competing for the opportunity, 9 outstanding students were chosen. Their specialisations span subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, English, and History across both Senior Primary and Secondary Phase levels.
Exposing students to multiple educational systems
On 02 December 2024, the selected students embarked on their journey to Austria via Ethiopian Airways. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by the hosting institution’s International Office, ensuring a smooth transition into their new academic environment.
According to Dr Enock Simasiku, Head of the Department of Applied Educational Sciences: “Student mobilities across universities are vital as they expose students to multiple educational systems, broadening their perspectives on teaching and learning.
“This is especially important for students training to become teachers, as it enables them to appreciate diverse schooling methodologies. Also, exchange programmes offer a lifetime opportunity to build international friendships, foster responsibility and cultivate respect for cultural differences.”
Just days after the students’ arrival, UNAM staff members were invited to Austria to participate in the Erasmus Staff International Week, where they had the chance to check on the students’ progress.
“All students were in a jovial mood and had settled in well despite the cold weather,” Dr Simasiku noted.
“The hosting institution has gone above and beyond to ensure their comfort. They will conduct their Teaching Practice (TP) and School-Based Studies (SBS) in Austria, and will receive official certificates for completing these components in Vienna.”
Importantly, UNAM has put measures in place to ensure that the credits earned in Austria are equivalent to those in the students’ registered programmes at home. This guarantees a seamless academic transition upon their return.
The nine students are expected back in Namibia on 01 March 2025, bringing with them valuable international exposure that will undoubtedly enrich their professional and academic journeys.
