On a night marked by vision, intellect and national ambition, UNAM proudly launched its inaugural Research Chairs, a milestone underscoring its evolution into a research-intensive institution and a strategic partner in Namibia’s development.
The event held on 19 May 2025 at Hilton Hotel in Windhoek led to 8 prestigious academic leadership positions awarded to outstanding researchers poised to generate knowledge, mentor young scholars, and drive innovation that results in real-world impact.
The newly appointed Research Chairs
- Research Chair for Material Science: Prof Daniel Likius
- Research Chair for Green Technologies: Prof Oluwagbenga Johnson
- Research Chair for Infectious Diseases: Prof Mareli Claassens
- Research Chair for Fisheries and Aquatic Sustainability: Prof Tamuka Nhiwatiwa
- Research Chair for Animal Nutrition Prof John Mupangwa
- Research Chair for Climate Change Resilience: Prof Kassian Amesho
- Research Chair for Astronomy: Prof Michael Backes
- Research Chair for One Health: Prof Simbarashe Chitanga
The Vice Chancellor’s vision for strategic research
In his welcoming remarks, Professor Dr. Kenneth Matengu, UNAM’s Vice-Chancellor, traced the university’s research journey citing that it was not until 2014 that a decisive shift was made to formalise high-level research structures with the establishment of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Development.
Professor Matengu, who played a pivotal role in setting this direction, emphasised the dual importance of science for its own sake and research with direct societal application. “It is very important that we do science also for its own sake.”
“We cannot innovate, inspire or achieve a Nobel Prize without meaningful investment in research. We must commit to a future where evidence informs our laws, policy and, progress,” he emphasised.
A national mission
As dignitaries, students, and faculty watched the official launch, it became clear that this was not just an academic event—it was a national moment. It signaled UNAM’s commitment to a future where knowledge leads the way; where Namibian labs and classrooms produce world-class science; where mentorship and relevance converge.
Delivering the keynote address, The Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture Hon. Sanet Steenkamp reiterated the importance of translational research and re-affirming Namibia’s science matters on the world stage.
“For years it’s been more teaching intensive. Now we wish to move to be more research-intensive. But what does it mean for the uncle who’s repairing the car as a mechanic and the auntie who’s doing the hand washing still? And the grandparent who’s standing in the field that needs to be ploughed?
