Student union bemoans high varsity fees

The Students Union of Namibia (SUN) has called for urgent reforms in the country’s education sector, highlighting concerns over high registration fees, unequal treatment of tertiary institutions, placement challenges for learners, outdated curricula and gaps in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) teacher training.SUN has raised concerns over the high cost of registration at universities, particularly at the University of Namibia (Unam), where students reportedly pay a N$6 000 registration fee.The union argued that this amount is unaffordable for many students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.In response to SUN’s concerns, Unam has clarified that its 2025 registration fee is N$1 500, with an additional minimum compulsory payment of N$6 975, which covers tuition, technology and connectivity fees.The university emphasised its commitment to affordability through flexible payment plans and exemptions for students receiving financial aid.Fair treatment To address the issue of registration fees, SUN demands that registration fees be reduced to below N$3 000 across all universities. Additionally, the union is calling for free registration for students facing financial hardship, with verification to be conducted through governor’s offices and the gender ministry.The union has also criticised alleged disparities in the accreditation and registration of qualifications by the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) and the National Training Authority (NTA).SUN insists that all tertiary institutions be treated fairly to ensure consistent quality education. It has warned that any discriminatory practices will be challenged legally or through student demonstrations.Place learners SUN has also called for immediate action to address delays in placing learners in schools, arguing that such delays result in students missing critical learning time. As a temporary measure, the union has proposed a platoon system, in which schools operate in shifts to accommodate more students. Additionally, SUN is urging the government to deploy unemployed but qualified teachers to improve the teacher-to-learner ratio.In response to recent cyberattacks on government institutions, SUN has also urged universities to update their curricula to include specialised courses in cybersecurity. The union argues that such programmes are essential for equipping students with skills to address national security threats and technological challenges.Additionally, the union has identified a critical shortage of well-trained TVET instructors and is calling on the government to prioritise teacher training in this sector. Strengthening vocational education is seen as key to addressing skills shortages and improving employment prospects for graduates.Unam respondsRegarding student placements, Unam said it has not experienced delays from the education ministry and has extended its late registration period until 4 February to accommodate students.Furthermore, Unam highlighted its ongoing engagement with student leaders, emphasising their role in university decision-making and policy development.“We remain committed to working closely with student representatives to address their concerns and improve access to quality education,” said Simon Namesho, Unam spokesperson.The Namibia University of Sciences and Technology's (NUST) declined to comment on the union's remarks when approached for comment.

Student union bemoans high varsity fees

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-19

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Student union bemoans high varsity fees

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-19

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