The Namibia College of Open Learning (NAMCOL) on Thursday rewarded 26 top-performing students for the 2020 academic year. Speaking at the ceremony Namcol Director, Dr Haroldt Murangi, said he was honoured to reward students for the hard work under difficult circumstances that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. “This type of event was suspended last year due to COVID-19 regulations, restrictions, lockdowns which affected our students, trainees and learners in multiple ways, reinforcing inequalities and putting them under social and psychological stress,” he said. He added that the awards should serve as motivation and inspiration to learners countrywide. “Always strive for what you aimed for and never give up. Today I salute you, you have made it to the top,” Murangi said. The top pupils were rewarded with rewards such as prize money, certificates and digital gadgets. The overall top performer, Peter Kafuro from Kavango West walked away with N$14 000 and a Samsung tablet. Amanda Chiyadzwa from Khomas in second place received N$3 000 as well as a Samsung tablet. Other students who also walked away with prizes include Tresia Kalyenge, Guillaume du Plessis, Josephina Kamati, Maria Malyata, Lusozi Mupofi and Theresia Ndara. Also on the list were Kanisia Namandje, Lusia Kauna Daniel, Karina Dongwi, Julia Nambala, Maxine Matiti, Leitta Andreas, Tileni Petrus, Kondjeni Kakuuai, Hendelina Angala, Sleadrey van Wyk, Ndeshimona Paulus and Angelina Utete Lutwayi. Furthermore, Murangi used the words of American writer and lecturer Dale Carnegie to motivate the students: “Success is getting what you want. Happiness is wanting what you get.” Francine Keendjele, Namcol’s director for learner support congratulated the best achievers and emphasised that they were expected to leave the ceremony as good ambassadors of the college. “Make wise decisions and remember that it is through hard work, commitment and continuous learning that you will reach your full potential.”