The University of Namibia (UNAM) has launched a pioneering initiative in partnership with the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), introducing specialised short courses focused on climate change. This significant step, launched on 24 June 2024, marks a crucial development in addressing Namibia’s vulnerability to climate impacts.
During the ceremony attended by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Hon. Pohamba Shifeta, 3 new climate change courses were introduced:
- Certificate in Fundamentals of Climate Change
- Certificate in Development and Management of Climate Change Projects
- Certificate in Climate Change Financing and Entrepreneurship
Minister Shifeta stated that Namibia, renowned for its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity is confronted with a stark reality with projections indicating a potential 2-degree Celsius rise in average temperatures by 2030.
He emphasised the urgent need for proactive measures against climate change and commended UNAM and EIF for initiating these courses, highlighting their critical role in equipping Namibians with the knowledge and skills essential to mitigate environmental threats.
“The challenges posed by climate change – rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and erratic weather patterns require proactive solutions. Namibia’s natural wealth and resilient population are assets, yet we must prepare ourselves to adapt effectively to these evolving climatic conditions.
“The partnership between UNAM and EIF aims to address this imperative through accessible and accredited short courses tailored to meet current educational demands,” he explained.
Collective action needed to confront climate change
Mr. Karl Mutani Aribeb, the Chief Operations Officer at EIF, spoke enthusiastically about the collaboration’s objectives and outcomes. “These short courses are designed to empower individuals with the expertise needed to confront the realities of climate change and are crafted to provide flexibility for working professionals while maintaining academic rigor, accredited at NQA Level 9.
He elaborated that the flexibility of these courses is a key feature, accommodating individuals who cannot commit to extended periods away from work. This accessibility ensures that a broader spectrum of learners from government officials to environmental practitioners can participate actively in advancing climate resilience across Namibia.
Furthermore, the courses serve as a gateway to higher academic pursuits. Successful completion grants eligibility for enrolment in UNAM’s master’s programme from 2025 onwards, thereby fostering a pathway for continuous learning and professional development in environmental sciences.
In his speech delivered by PVC: Research, Innovation, and Development, Prof. Cristina Stefan, Vice Chancellor Prof. Kenneth Matengu indicated that these short courses offer a comprehensive curriculum and a team of leading expert instructors have been appointed to provide participants with valuable insights and practical guidance. He also noted that these courses will be highly interactive and practical, equipping students with a deeper understanding.
As Namibia charts its course toward sustainable development amidst global climate crises, initiatives like UNAM and EIF’S climate change short courses exemplify a shared commitment to equipping individuals with the tools needed to navigate and mitigate environmental challenges. It sets a precedent for collaborative efforts between academia and environmental stakeholders.
For those looking to start on this transformative journey, registration for the climate change short courses can be done at: https://forms.office.com/r/4NuNCqWwGU
