The University of Namibia (UNAM)  has launched an investigation into allegations of tribalism in the selection of students for its Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programs.

The university promised to release the outcome of the investigation next week.

The latest claims echo similar assertions made last year.

Namibia is a diverse country with many tribes, and allegations of tribalism raising their ugly heads are common.

Politicians, including President Hage Geingob, have strongly spoken out against the evils of tribalism.

UNAM is accused of enrolling the majority of its first-year medical students from one ethnic group, and this has sparked debate on some social media platforms.

But in a statement, UNAM's Executive Management says it has instituted internal processes to establish all the facts surrounding the matter.

It cautioned the public against making assumptions based on surnames.

According to the statement, the number of students admitted is always limited.

The university says it is conscious of these facts and is considering various options in consultation with the relevant professional body to address the situation.

UNAM further explained that academic points obtained, regional representation, and quotas of applicants, as determined by the Health Professions Council of Namibia, are considered before applicants become successful.

Prospective students from marginalized communities who meet admission requirements are afforded placement into the highly sought-after Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programs.

Following the announcement of the 2022 intake of Namibian Defense Force recruits, President Hage Geingob took to social media to commend the army's leadership for selecting candidates from all 14 regions on an equal basis.