The University of Namibia and its philanthropic partner, the University of Namibia Foundation have recently signed a pioneering Memorandum of Agreement to usher in a new era of educational development.
This collaborative effort, backed by a substantial seed funding of nearly N$15 million signifies a shared commitment to boosting educational initiatives and facilities over the next 3 years.
UNAM Foundation, established as an independent charitable trust in 2019, is mandated to secure, invest, steward, and distribute private resources to support UNAM’s strategic objectives. Through this new agreement, the Foundation will receive the seed funding, empowering it to manage and support the University’s endeavours.
At the signing ceremony held at Main Campus, UNAM’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Kenneth Matengu lauded the Foundation’s unwavering dedication to the University’s mission. He emphasised, “The University has consistently strived to provide quality education, conduct impactful research, and contribute meaningfully to societal development; the Foundation is born out of that shared vision and plays a crucial role in securing the necessary resources to complement and advance the University’s mission.
“I am confident that this collaboration between the University and UNAM Foundation will not only strengthen our academic institution but also contribute significantly to the growth and development of our society,” he stated.
He further remarked that he envisions this ‘parent-child agreement’ as a catalyst for fostering effective fundraising programmes and developing effective policies in collaboration with the University’s administration and faculties as well as the rest of the 11 campuses.
Sharing her sentiments at the signing ceremony, Ms. Dantagos Jimmy-Melani, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of UNAM Foundation, expressed gratitude for the generous seed funding from UNAM. She expressed that this MoA signing formalises a partnership that holds immense promise for the future of higher education and innovation in Namibia.
Ms. Jimmy-Melani highlighted the pivotal role of the seed funding stating that, “the University Council’s generous approval of N$ 14 855 375 seed funding marks a pivotal moment in our journey and is an investment in the future of higher education, research, and innovation in Namibia.
“From providing financial and in-kind support to developing comprehensive fundraising programmes, we are committed to working together with the University to create a conducive environment for increasing levels of private support,” she explained.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ms. Bernadette Bock, UNAM Foundation’s Executive Director, characterised this agreement as a significant milestone for both parties. She expressed her unwavering hope for continued collaboration toward achieving shared goals.
