At the recent Innovation Awards Ceremony hosted by the University of Namibia (UNAM) in partnership with Telecom Namibia, the venue was filled with a dynamic energy – driven by a vision to recognize the brightest, inventive and game-changing innovators.
The event, held at the Windhoek Country Club, awarded Namibia’s brightest minds, from students to staff, recognizing ideas with the power to revolutionize industries and in essence of the event’s theme; Doing things differently.
The Innovation Awards celebrated UNAM’s brightest minds across multiple categories. New Entrants Mr Mathew Ndjulume and Ms Jeniffer Haroldine Areses were honored for their promising ideas, while Alumni Innovators Ms. Ester Amoomo and Ms Naemi Likius highlighted the impact of UNAM graduates. Prof Likius Daniel, Prof Ahmad Cheikhyouseff, and Prof Nailoke Pauline Kadhila earned the Seasoned Innovators title, which is earmarked for UNAM Professors. Emerging Innovator was awarded to Ms Rosy Schaneck, Mr Owen Lisulo, and Dr Ester Angula. Dr Angula notably scooped the Overall Best Award. The Inspiring Award went to Mr Naftal Iyambula, recognizing his exceptional dedication towards his academic research. Each honoree reflects UNAM’s vision for a dynamic future in Namibia’s innovation.
UNAM’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr Kenneth Matengu commended the awardees and emphasized the importance of giving innovators a chance to succeed.
“This is a celebration of brilliant minds,” Prof Dr Matengu stated. “With our partners, including Telecom Namibia, NBC, FNB, NamWater, and New Era Corporation, we’re creating opportunities to support these innovations and enable young Namibians to shape our nation’s future.”
We see so many opportunities that we do not like to waste, and if we can harvest those, we can work with other institutions as well. We are very happy to partner with other institutions to make sure that we give opportunities to our young people to thrive and to make Namibia great,” stated Prof Dr Matengu.
Telecom Namibia’s Chief Commercial Officer and acting CEO, Mr Calvin Muniswaswa remarked that by developing new technologies and solutions, countries such as Namibia can improve productivity, create jobs, and improve the quality of life of their citizens.
“As a key partner of the Innovation Fund, Telecom Namibia recognizes the pivotal role of innovation in our nation’s development. Our collaboration with UNAM is rooted in a shared vision to empower local talent and transform innovative ideas into tangible solutions.
This initiative is more than a competition, it is a platform for turning visionary concepts into reality. We are eager to witness the progress our innovators have made and how they plan to address the challenges facing our society”, he stated.
Big corporations supporting start-up innovative ideas
Prof Dr Matengu lauded the various partners in this initiative citing the need to grow the middle class. Our sponsors Telecom Namibia, NBC, New Era Corporation, FNB, and NamWater, are helping us to create that opportunity that will enable these small and medium enterprises to grow. Not in the traditional way, but also in a much more sound and resilient manner that is sustainable.
The Pro Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Prof Dr Cristina Stefan stated that her office’s role is to recognise what is happening all around UNAM campuses, to visit and to meet as many people as possible to be able to understand how we can foster growth in research and innovation across the university.
“We are excited to see the innovations that will arise from this competition and the lasting impact they will have on our society,” remarked Prof Stefan.
Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. John Sifani, the Director: Centre for Innovation and Development (CID) emphasized that the innovation awards go beyond the scope of a single competition.
“Our vision extends beyond just this competition,” he said, “we aim to create an ongoing platform for mentorship, networking, and skills development that empowers students and local innovators alike.” This forward-thinking approach reflects a commitment to fostering long-term growth and opportunity for emerging talents, ensuring they have the necessary support to succeed.
The Innovation Competition Awards afford UNAM students, staff, and alumni with an opportunity to showcase their ideas for mentorship and funding. Read more here: https://forumonline.unam.edu.na/chancellors-innovation-fund-cif-continues-to-transform-creative-ideas-into-entrepreneurship/
And here: https://www.unam.edu.na/cif/
