• Careers

Iris Shimhanda: Vision for UNAM Leadership

• 16 Hours Ago

From her early days as an SRC assistant to her current role as secretary for internal affairs, Iris Shimhanda has combined competence with a passion for service, setting a new standard for student representation. Shimhanda explained that in her second year, 2024, she served as an assistant in the office of the secretary for internal affairs under the Student Representative Council (SRC) and later became the secretary for internal affairs in 2025. She is also a certified media and information literacy learning initiative facilitator and a proud Namibian debater. Reflecting on her achievements, she said she was named best national speaker at the Namibia debate nationals in 2023 and has represented Namibia internationally in countries such as Togo and South Africa.

Speaking about her role as secretary for internal affairs, Shimhanda said it truly tested her leadership because it is one of the most senior non-executive portfolios. She explained that she had the opportunity to show her passion for servanthood and implement initiatives that positively impacted students’ lives. “My competence earned the trust of the council, allowing me to act in both executive and non-executive capacities when needed,” she said. She emphasised that her commitment to serving students remains strong and that their voices must always be heard.



Early inspiration

Shimhanda said she first became involved in student leadership during her first year because she wanted to consistently assist her peers. Leaders such as Twapewa-Ashihe Mungoba and Pedro Muyoyeta inspired her, as they embodied the principles of true leadership. “Restoring students’ trust in the Student Representative Council is the most important impact I can make as SRC Vice President,” she said.



Restoring trust and accountability

During her tenure as Secretary for Internal Affairs, Shimhanda created online platforms to ensure students could hold her accountable at any time. “We had a Google form for complaints and a WhatsApp group called ‘Internal Affairs Reports and Feedback,’” she explained. She maintained an open-door policy throughout the year and plans to continue this approach while holding regular information sessions so students are well-informed about the duties of all three tiers of the SRC. “Competence, transparency, and accountability are my minimum standards,” she said.



Student issues and digital presence

Addressing student accommodation, Shimhanda said she plans to begin conversations about UNAM’s accountability in hostel registration. Many students were left without accommodation this year because the university accepted nearly 2,000 students while the hostels only house 1,200. “With 12,000 students at the university, it is crucial to discuss expanding accommodation and ensuring fair access for all students,” she said. She also aims to strengthen the digital presence of the SRC by working closely with each school representative and hosting information sessions so students can effectively access and use SRC resources.



Shaped by experience

Reflecting on her experience as Secretary for Internal Affairs, Iris said it has shaped her profoundly. “Servanthood requires perseverance, creativity, and the willingness to go beyond the borders of your role to inspire meaningful change,” she explained. She told aspiring leaders, “Leadership is servanthood. It is not only about capability but about having true passion to serve wholeheartedly and going beyond what others expect. Always go the extra mile and be the inspiration others look for.”



Fair representation

Shimhanda further said her vision is clear: “The University of Namibia, like a nation, is only as strong as its weakest link. Every student must have fair access and representation, and I am committed to ensuring that each student feels seen, safe, and secure, regardless of background.”