The University of Namibia is making strides in strengthening its position as a hub for academic excellence and research innovation in Southern Africa.

Professor Matengu announced the completion of phase one of the Department of Wildlife Management and Tourism Studies at UNAM's Katima Mulilo campus, with modern facilities dedicated to conservation studies. Construction of phase two is set to commence this year and will provide accommodation for both students and lecturers, boosting the intake of international students.

"We have designated this new component as a centre of excellence in wildlife management in SADC, hence our collaboration with KAZA TFCA and other higher education institutions such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Mweka College in Tanzania, and the University of Montana in the United States, as I've said."

The university is also set to launch its 2025 to 2030 Integrated Strategic Business Plan, which outlines the institution's vision to become a research-intensive, globally competitive institution with a strong social impact across Namibia, the region, and the world.

The Vice Chancellor was speaking at the university's graduation ceremony in Katima Mulilo, where 245 students received their qualifications in various fields.

The Chief Executive Officer for the Environmental Investment Fund, Benedict Libanda, urged graduates seeking funding in areas such as climate change, finance, and environmental-related fields to apply for funding from the EIF.

"We do have entrepreneurial funding in the Environmental Investment Fund for graduates entering the new business sector. This is open for funding of up to 2 million Namibian dollars, and you can start your small macro business; it does not require any collateral, so it can be a good start towards SMEs for those with entrepreneurial minds."