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Namdia unveils bursary recipients

• 3 Months Ago - 2024-02-15 00:00:00

The Namib Desert Diamond (Namdia) Foundation has announced the successful selection of candidates for the 2024 academic intake of its bursary scheme.
Founded with the mission of tackling Namibia's social and economic challenges through education, health and sports, the foundation reiterated its commitment to empowering Namibian youth.
Continuing the positive trajectory initiated by the Namdia Foundation bursary scheme launched in August 2022 and the unveiling of its inaugural recipients in January 2023, the foundation has now identified a second cohort of deserving candidates, each representing one of the 14 regions across the country.

Choosing candidates
In ensuring an equitable and impartial selection process, the committee placed significant emphasis on key selection criteria. Academic performance constituted the primary consideration, carrying 50% weight. Additionally, attention was paid to the economic backgrounds of applicants, with 20% weight allocated to individuals from historically disadvantaged or marginalised communities.
The preferred field of study, in accordance with the foundation's policy, accounted for 15% of the evaluation, while proof of parental or guardian income, supported by certified affidavits, held a 10% weight.
Furthermore, "preference was given to students pursuing studies in the diamond industry value chain, reflecting our commitment to fostering growth and development in our sector," Alisa Amupolo, chairperson of the Namdia Foundation and CEO of Namdia, said during her welcoming address.
She explained that the selected candidates exhibited exceptional academic achievement, leadership qualities and a dedication to making positive impacts in their lives and communities.
The bursaries, totaling N$2.8 million annually, will grant students access to quality education, empowering them to contribute to the nation's development while addressing socio-economic challenges among the youth.
The application period ran from 5 October to 8 December 2023, during which the Namdia Foundation received a total of 343 applications from all 14 regions across the country.

Meaningful impact
The Khomas Region emerged with the highest number of applications, at 71, representing 20.7% of the total. Following closely were the Omusati and Oshana regions in second and third place, respectively, while the Kavango West and Hardap regions had the fewest submissions.
"When the Namdia Foundation established the bursary scheme in 2022, our vision was clear: to drive meaningful and sustainable change within our community. Today, as we announce the Class of 2024, we are already witnessing first-hand the realisation of this vision," remarked Bryan Eiseb, chairman of the Namdia board of directors.
He added that the Class of 2023, a remarkable group of students, demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication, seizing the opportunities presented to them, as they have achieved an impressive 86% success rate, with 12 out of the 14 students showcasing outstanding academic performance.

Brighter tomorrow
During the announcement of the Class of 2024 bursary recipients, Louise Shixwameni, deputy executive director at the ministry of finance and public enterprises, encouraged the students to pursue their studies with enthusiasm and embrace limitless possibilities, as the future of the nation depends on them.
The Namdia Foundation's bursary scheme stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. By investing in education and empowering the youth, it is laying the foundation for a brighter and more sustainable future for Namibia and its people.
Serving as a catalyst for progress and aligning with the National Development Agenda and Harambee Prosperity Plan, the foundation is contributing to Namibia's journey towards a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future.
Through education and empowerment, the foundation paves the way for a brighter tomorrow for all Namibians.