Unam offers registration lifeline to senior students struggling with debt

The University of Namibia (Unam) has announced a special registration arrangement that allows eligible senior undergraduate students with outstanding fees to register for the 2026 academic year without paying their full debt upfront.

In a notice issued by the registrar’s office and the finance department, the university said the initiative is intended to help students in their final years of study to complete their qualifications despite financial challenges.

Under the arrangement, Namibian undergraduates who owe less than N$50 000 and are willing to sign a payment agreement with the university will be permitted to register.

“Don’t let outstanding fees hold you back. Your future is too important; take the step and register today,” the notice reads.

Unam said students who owe more than N$50 000 may still qualify, provided they reduce their debt to below the threshold before approaching the finance department to lift the financial block and sign a payment agreement.

Once the agreement is signed, students will be allowed to proceed with registration either online or at their nearest campus.

Deadline

However, the university cautioned that the payment agreement must be signed and submitted by no later than Monday, 16 February. "Failure to do so will lead to exclusion from the Unam student portal and eventually deregistration,” the university warned.

The institution emphasised that the arrangement is time-bound, noting that classes are already starting this week and that the new policy supersedes all previous announcements on payment agreements.

Unam public relations manager Simon Namesho earlier this month said the university continues to encourage learners to complete higher levels of schooling, while also recognising that alternative academic pathways are necessary.

“Our strongest point is to say that we encourage Grade 11 learners to progress to Grade 12,” Namesho said, adding that readiness and bridging programmes are available for learners who may not yet meet conventional entry requirements.

Unam director Maggy Beukes-Amiss at the time echoed the call for a broader, coordinated approach to education and access. “We must work together to uphold quality standards for this nation. We want our children to compete globally,” she said.

The university said the special registration arrangement is part of its broader efforts to prevent students from dropping out due to financial constraints, particularly in their final years of study, and to ensure that deserving students are able to complete their academic journeys.