Stamp of approval for leading, emerging universities

Institutional audit reports handed over
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) recognised a wave of institutional growth and academic excellence in the capital last week.
Ndapandula Lilonga
  • 5 Days Ago

Executive Director and Registrar of Private Higher Education Institutions, Erastus Haitengela, gave his formal seal of approval for several of the country’s leading and emerging academic bodies.

The University of Namibia (UNAM) dominated the rankings, receiving accreditation for a staggering 115 programmes. Vice-Chancellor Kenneth Matengu highlighted that this was the result of a rigorous, often stressful evaluation process aimed at proving the university’s global competitiveness.

Of particular importance is the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine. Now recognised by the Southern African Veterinary Council, the programme has become a continental benchmark. “We are receiving requests from European countries and our SADC neighbours to help them start their own programmes,” Matengu said.

He also pointed to the newly accredited Manufacturing and Production Technology programme as an “engine room” for Namibia’s industrial future, specifically targeting the emerging oil and green hydrogen sectors, with plans for specialised underwater welding training.

While UNAM’s programmes were a focal point, the NCHE also celebrated the maturity of other key institutions through the presentation of Institutional Audit Reports. These audits evaluate governance and leadership rather than just curriculum.


Audit reports

Acting Vice-Chancellor of Welwitchia University Marius Hedimbi accepted the audit report, noting that the recognition motivates the university to elevate its research and academic excellence. In the same vein St Charles Lwanga Major Seminary and Triumphant College were both lauded for their willingness to undergo internal reviews, with the rector of the latter, Geoffrey Kiangi, noting that the audit provides a clear roadmap for addressing gaps and strengthening systems.

The ceremony also marked the official entry of new players into the regulated education landscape. Mayfield College CC and Atlantic Training Institution received certificates of registration, legally authorising them to offer higher education in Namibia.

Meanwhile, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) solidified its standing with the accreditation of four key programmes. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Teresia Kaulhowa emphasised that at NUST, “quality is a culture, not an event”, and that these certifications ensure their graduates remain anchors of stability in an era of rapid technological change.

Haitengela reminded those present that these certificates of registration are more than just paper; they are a “promise to the Namibian child”.

“Quality assurance is not an endpoint; it is a promise that every student receives an education that will equip them for life, work, and leadership,” Haitengela stated.