Unam honours thousands of graduates
The University of Namibia (Unam) commemorated its annual graduation ceremonies this month across its campuses in Namibia, including the southern campus, Windhoek, Rundu Katima Mulilo, and its northern campus. These events marked a significant milestone in the completed academic journey of thousands of students.A total of 4 396 graduates took part in eight Unam graduation ceremonies across the country this year.
Overall, Unam has facilitated the graduation of 70 000 students since its inception.
Aiding the Namibian economy
In Windhoek, the graduation ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the university's pivotal role in shaping the future of the Namibian economy.
Unam's acting pro-vice chancellor and residing officer of administration, finance, and resource mobilisation, Ellen Namhila, said: “We have graduated over 70 000 students into the Namibian economy, into Namibian society, and into the world.”
She added: “Unam means business when it comes to education."
Unam vice chancellor Professor Kenneth Matengu expressed his excitement and joy, stating: “Congratulations to our 2024 graduates. You have reached a huge milestone in your life. Cherish this moment to the fullest.”
Raising the bar
Established as a beacon of higher education excellence in the region, Unam has consistently demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence and societal impact. The institution's steadfast dedication to nurturing talent and fostering innovation has earned it a prestigious spot among the top universities in Africa. Co-ranked 16th in the 2023 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Unam continues to raise the bar for educational standards on the continent.
Reflecting its diverse academic offerings, a graduate from the faculty of humanities and social sciences, Etietop Akpabio, said: "It feels very strange to consider myself a graduate; it feels as if the last four years seemed to have gone by so quickly. However, I am glad that I have finally graduated, especially when I looked at the faces of my family who were in attendance. I am happy and excited for what the future has to hold.”
Desire to excel
From the faculty of education and human sciences to the faculty of engineering and information technology, each and all departments play a vital role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's dynamic world. The university's emphasis on multidisciplinary education ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation across industries.
As Unam looks towards the future, its commitment to academic excellence and societal impact remains unwavering. With each graduating class, the university reaffirms its position as a driving force for positive change in the Namibian economy and beyond. “May the spirit of hard work, perseverance, resilience and the desire to excel and achieve be in all of you,” concluded Namhila.