Public and private tertiary institutions have expressed readiness for the implementation of the government's subsidised tertiary education programme.
NBC News engaged the University of Namibia (UNAM) and the International University of Management (IUM) to assess their preparedness following the proclamation.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah proclaimed that from this academic year, tertiary education in Namibia will be fully subsidised, with the government covering tuition and registration fees.
The programme applies to both public and qualifying private tertiary institutions, with funding coordinated through the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF).
Manager of Public Relations & Media Operations at UNAM, Simon Namesho, acknowledged that the implementation will bring additional administrative responsibilities and data-capturing requirements; however, the university expressed readiness, noting that the process will be eased through collaboration with the implementing agency, NSFAF.
"Yes, there could be challenges because this is the first year of implementing the new directive regarding the funding module for education in Namibia. So, some hiccups in the process, information, and full implementation of the new abilities are expected. That's why a lot of information is being released daily, but it's important to note that there are inclusion and exclusion eligibility criteria set forth by the Ministry on a general, principle basis. We are following that so we can implement subsidised education in Namibia. What is important for us is to say, 'Yes, we will not turn away anybody in terms of qualifying for our admission criteria.' We remain merit-based in terms of our admission criteria at the university."
The Director of Marketing, Communication, and Stakeholder Engagement at IUM, Gerry Munyama, welcomed the government's shift from the previous study-loan model to a subsidised system, expressing hope that NSFAF will effectively facilitate the process for continuing students.
"We are encouraged that the current group of NASFAF-funded students will continue to be supported by NASFAF. We do not believe in orphaned students. We do not believe in abandoning learners along the way. What the ministry has adopted, therefore, in extending support to these students is truly commendable. We are thus very happy for the continued Namibian student support, regardless of their institutions of learning. As for preparedness for 2026, IUM remains ready and very ready. We continue to plan, expand programme offerings, strengthen our campuses, and position ourselves strategically to serve the nation."
With the announcement of the Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary and Advanced Subsidiary national examinations on Tuesday, universities are expecting an influx of registrations.