Half-mil boost for inclusive education
FNB Namibia, through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, has renewed its backing for inclusive education with a N$500 000 pledge to the University of Namibia (UNAM) Foundation.The announcement was made by FNB Namibia’s head of business banking, Veranus Shinyemba, at the 2025 UNAM Foundation fundraising gala dinner in Windhoek.
The funding will go towards improving facilities for students living with disabilities, ensuring they have access to an academic environment that is both equitable and empowering. It follows last year’s identical pledge, which funded a state-of-the-art study lounge for students with disabilities.
Speaking at the event, Shinyemba said the contribution reflects the bank’s belief that inclusivity must go beyond good intentions:
“Tonight, I have the honour of continuing a tradition at FNB Namibia, standing alongside the UNAM Foundation in its mission. This is not just about celebration; it’s a call to action for the private sector to meet our youth where they are and support them financially, structurally, and sustainably.”
Former president and UNAM chancellor, Dr Nangolo Mbumba, who also serves as patron of the UNAM Foundation, stressed the importance of accessibility in his keynote address:
“What kind of future are we building if it is not accessible to all? We must create a university environment where no student is left behind - one that is accessible, equitable, empowering and transformative.”
UNAM vice chancellor, Professor Kenneth Matengu, echoed the call for inclusivity, warning that excluding students with special needs is not only a denial of their rights but a loss to Namibia’s future workforce and innovation capacity.
Shinyemba acknowledged that many communities remain underserved despite national efforts, noting that organisations like the UNAM Foundation play a critical role in bridging the gap.
The gala dinner brought together leaders from government, academia, business and civil society, united in their goal to raise funds for accessible, high-quality tertiary education for all Namibians.