The University of Namibia has launched Research Chairs; the accomplished faculty members with strong records of research for the 2025 to 2028 academic years were bestowed the title.

The certifications were awarded by the Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp.

Sanet Steenkamp urged academics to embrace change and face national challenges through research.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I said already it represents what the prof also said, Namibian strategic intent to lead to finding the solution for problems with our country and beyond; we should not stifle ourselves and stifle those around us while we have systems and processes in place. I literally want to take the black box and jump on it and squash the box, please."

Steenkamp further said that as a community, Namibia should get out in the landscapes of the country to understand its cultural heritage.

UNAM Vice Chancellor Professor Kenneth Matengu said the research chairs are a new five-year strategy that focuses on research that responds to national needs and contributes to global scientific advancement.

"This division was created to establish a research agenda with a clear priority of where the university is going to react in a relevant and responsive way to the development needs of the country."

Professor Matengu said that this department has room for growth and expansion as need arises.

The research chairs cover strategic fields and are Professor Daniel Likius for material science, Professor Oluwagbenga Johnson for green technologies, Professor Mareli Claassens for infectious diseases, Prof. Tamuka Nhiwatiwa for fisheries and aquatic sustainability, Professor John Mupangwa for animal nutrition, Professor Kassian Amesho for climate change resilience, Professor Michael Backes for astronomy and Professor Simbarashe Chitanga for One Health.