The University of Namibia (UNAM)'s Southern Campus celebrated the annual cultural festival in style, showcasing unity in diversity. 

A parade through the streets of Keetmanshoop signalled the opening of the three-day cultural festival held under the theme 'Connecting Cultures, Building Unity'. 

The event promotes and celebrates the academic institution's rich, diverse cultural heritage while cultivating a spirit of cultural tolerance. 

The campus director, Seth Eiseb, said that cultural awareness initiatives such as cultural festivals play a key role in breaking down stereotypes. 

"Let us just not commit today but every day to connecting cultures and building unity. Let us be the generation that sees difference as a barrier, not as a bridge that we can cross that leads with empathy, mutual respect and mutual understanding."

A student at the campus, Rionnis Mbaendavi, commended students from different backgrounds for "coming together, not just to share space but to share stories, values, and dreams. Our differences have not divided us. They have enriched us. I urge future generations to continue nurturing these bonds, to strengthen the bridges between cultures and to build a campus and community where every voice is heard."

Senior Cultural Officer at the ||Kharas  Education Directorate, Maria Sarles, called on the students to connect culture in meaningful ways. "How do we move beyond tolerance towards genuine acceptance and appreciation? How do we ensure that our universities, our workplaces, and our communities reflect the unity so often spoken of?"