Over 3,800 students have graduated from the University of Namibia (UNAM) across its combined campuses this year. Graduation ceremonies are scheduled to take place over the next two days in the capital.

The graduates completed their studies in various fields, including law, economics, accounting, and business. Around 70 percent of them are women, many of whom were top performers. Their success reinforced the message shared by many during the event: “The future is female.”

UNAM Vice Chancellor, Professor Kenneth Matengu, praised the students for their dedication and urged them to continue pursuing excellence. “As you move forward, I encourage you to strive for excellence, to challenge yourself, and to never stop learning,” he said. “Remember that the knowledge and skills you have acquired here are not just for your personal benefit, but also for the society as a whole.”

Chancellor and former President Nangolo Mbumba echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the lasting power of education. “You have earned your respect, and it will shape your life and the path that lies ahead of you. That’s the beauty of education—it is not only a key to future success and a passageway to opportunities, but once you have it, it is your own, and it is yours only,” he said.

Graduates expressed a mix of pride and ambition as they marked the milestone. “This is just the first step, to be honest,” said Toscia Sem. “So from here, it’s just up.”

Another graduate, George Kajundeka, shared his experience: “It was very interesting, honestly. It was not as difficult because I was really focused and I knew what I wanted. So I enjoyed it.”