Northern campuses equipped for PhDs

ONGWEDIVA - Higher education minister Itah Kandji-Murangi said the four campuses of the University of Namibia are well-equipped to offer various qualifications up to PhD level.

She said this during the graduation ceremony for over 900 students held on Thursday at Ongwediva. The institution has four campuses, namely Hifikepunye Pohamba, Oshakati, Jose Eduardo dos Santos and Ogongo.

The minister added that the Oshakati campus secured funding for PhD scientists to research infectious diseases. In addition, the Ogongo campus is involved with the Namibian Agronomy Board in a seed project focusing on mahangu with the aim of achieving seed security for Namibians, which is very important for the country in aiming to ensure food sufficiency.

Furthermore, the Hifikepunye Pohamba campus has successfully implemented the Bulgarian government-funded e-learning capacity-building board in the Ohangwena region. Lastly, civil engineering laboratories at the Jose Eduardo dos Santos campus host the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) chair on funds and risks for southern Africa, and the focus here is on flood and drought risks for the sub-continent.

Kandji-Murangi encouraged the graduates to put the acquired knowledge and skills to good use to make a difference in their lives, and in the lives of their parents.

“Serve humanity to the best of your abilities,” she added.

Unam vice-chancellor professor Kenneth Matengu encouraged graduates to take the first good chance they come across as they enter the competitive world of employment or entrepreneurship, and to always make thoughtful choices.

He also reminded them that achievers spend time focused on success for a better tomorrow, and that their qualifications are their licences to serve humanity wherever they go. “Enjoy the fruits of your hard work, and cherish every moment of this milestone. Congratulations once again. This is your moment,” Matengu said.