As the government rolls out its subsidised tertiary education funding model, the Ministry of Education has outlined who qualifies for support, which qualifications are funded, and how admissions standards at public universities will be upheld.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Sanet Steenkamp, has clarified that the government's subsidised tertiary education funding model will, for now, cover qualifications up to National Qualifications Framework Level 8, in line with the state's current three-year funding commitment.

The minister said post-graduate programmes, including master's and PhD studies, fall outside the scope of the current model and do not qualify for funding at this stage.

At the same time, the ministry announced an adjustment to the household income threshold for non-tuition support, increasing it from N$100,000 to N$300,000.

The move aims to expand government assistance for students from low- and middle-income families.

Steenkamp said the revised threshold would allow more households to qualify for support with non-tuition costs, such as accommodation and living expenses, easing financial pressure and promoting broader participation in tertiary education.

"Subsidised tertiary education is a national project that requires cooperation, close coordination, collaboration, and a shared understanding of our collective responsibility,' she said. 

Dr. Steenkamp, however, cautioned that, although much progress has been made, the government acknowledges that some complex issues will need to be addressed as implementation continues. "I therefore call upon all public and private tertiary institutions, all students, trainees, and parents, all education stakeholders, and the broader Namibian public to work with the government in good faith. Work with us in good faith as we implement this transformative reform in a manner that protects quality but also promotes access and safeguards the sustainability of our education system."

Meanwhile, the University of Namibia has reaffirmed that it will not admit Grade 11 learners, maintaining that prospective students must complete Grade 12 to qualify for entry.

Namesho said the institution strongly encourages Grade 11 learners to proceed to Grade 12, stressing that the university will not compromise on the quality of its education.