Five students receive bursaries from NAM and UNAM Foundation
Five deserving students have been awarded full bursaries through a collaborative effort between Namibia Asset Management (NAM) and the UNAM Foundation. The handover held at the University of Namibia (UNAM) earlier this month celebrated not only academic potential but also the power of partnerships in shaping Namibia’s future leaders.The bursaries are part of a long-running corporate social responsibility initiative by NAM, aimed at improving access to higher education for promising Namibian youth.
Speaking at the event, Bernadette Bock, Executive Director of the UNAM Foundation, emphasised the long-term value of such investments.
“This is more than just funding,” she said. “It is a shared belief in potential and a purposeful investment in tomorrow’s leaders.”
UNAM Vice Chancellor, Professor Kenneth Matengu, encouraged the recipients to approach their studies with focus and gratitude.
“This bursary is more than financial support; it is a bridge to your aspirations,” he said. “Carry it with purpose and commitment.”
Tarah Shaanika, CEO of NAM, expressed the company’s pride in supporting education, noting that the programme has disbursed over N$4.7 million in bursaries since its launch in 2013. More than 40 students have benefited directly, with several now working in respected positions, including at NAM itself.
“It is always fulfilling to be part of a young person’s educational journey,” Shaanika said. He reminded students that academic performance remains key, as the bursary does not cover failed modules.
Among the five recipients, four from UNAM and one from NUST, is Rion !Narib, a final-year Bachelor of Chartered Accountancy student at UNAM. Speaking on behalf of the group, he shared his gratitude.
“Today, I stand not just as a student, but as a testament to the power of access and opportunity,” !Narib said. “Knowing I’m not alone has empowered me to pursue my dreams with confidence.”
The ceremony marked a meaningful step in these students’ academic journeys and highlighted the importance of collaboration in building a stronger, more educated Namibia.