The University of Namibia (UNAM) is proud to announce that Ndapewa Shilume, a recent graduate of the Humanities and Arts Department, in the School of Humanities, Society & Development, has been awarded a prestigious scholarship by the French Embassy in Namibia. This scholarship will enable her to pursue a Master’s degree in Prehistoric Archaeology at the renowned National Museum of Natural History in Paris. The scholarship, which covers all expenses including tuition, accommodation, and travel, represents a major advancement in the development of Namibian archaeology.
Ndapewa Shilume, who graduated in April 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Humanities & Arts, was initially enrolled in a Postgraduate Diploma in Heritage and Conservation Management at UNAM. However, she decided to put her diploma studies on hold to focus on this unique opportunity in France. Her master’s programme will run from September 2024 to July 2026. Ndapewa has already embarked on her journey to France, where she has joined various archaeological excavations to gain practical experience before the commencement of her classes.
Dr. Emma Haitengi, a lecturer in the Department of Humanities and Arts, played a pivotal role in securing this scholarship for Ndapewa. Dr. Haitengi, who herself was a recipient of the same scholarship from 2007 to 2009, expressed her gratitude to the French Embassy for its continued investment in the development of Namibian archaeologists. “This scholarship is a proof to the dedication and support of the French Embassy in nurturing local talent and advancing the field of archaeology in Namibia,” said Dr. Haitengi.
What will Ndapewa focus on in Archaeology?
Archaeology, often described as the scientific study of human history through the material culture left behind, is a crucial discipline for understanding the precolonial history of Africa. “Archaeology is especially important in the African context as it helps us uncover and understand the complex symbolic and technological behaviours that characterise Homo sapiens,” Dr. Haitengi explained. Through the study of artifacts such as stone tools, ruins, prehistoric art, and faunal remains, archaeologists can piece together the stories of ancient societies and their ways of life.
The scholarship and Ndapewa’s upcoming studies in Paris are also a reflection of the strong collaboration between UNAM and international partners. Prof. David Pleurdeau, a French prehistoric archaeologist who has worked extensively on the archaeology of the Erongo Mountains since 2006, has been instrumental in securing scholarships for Namibian students. His ongoing research in the Erongo Mountains and his commitment to training local archaeologists have significantly contributed to the advancement of the field in Namibia.
Ndapewa’s focus during her master’s programme will be on lithic studies, specifically the analysis of stone tools, a crucial aspect of understanding human technological development. With the support of mentors like Dr. Haitengi and Prof. Pleurdeau, Ndapewa is set to make considerable contributions to the field of archaeology, both in Namibia and internationally.
