The government has spent over N$ 7 billion in funding students' tuition at public and private institutions of higher learning in the past 5 years.

In a media statement, the Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Itah Kandjii-Murangi says eligible and qualifying students whose parents' combined income is below N$ 500 000 per annum are given priority for government funding.

Dr. Kandjii-Murangi urges all eligible students to take responsibility for their education by ensuring that contracts with NSFAF are fully completed and signed.

She says the student loan fully covers the percent of students' tuition fees at their respective institutions of higher learning.

Dr. Kandjii-Murangi further reminds students that the deadline for the NSFAF application process which was launched last November is fast approaching with the 31st of January being the cutoff date.

Prospective students are therefore urged to apply online, in order for them to be considered for funding and avoid being left out.

She encourages leadership, Executive members, staff and students at all local universities, colleges, and TVET centers to work hard to create a welcoming environment that hastens the adjustment of new students to their new institutions.

In conclusion, Dr. Kandjii-Murangi says new students deserve to experience deliberate concerted efforts at institutional departments and individual levels, including safety and security on campuses, provision of appropriate guidance and support, effective teaching and learning, and safeguarding institutional orderliness for their overall adjustment, growth as well as their academic and social maturity.