From volunteer lecturer to master’s graduate at 25

At an age when many young Namibians are settling into their first jobs, 25-year-old Bishop Joab Willeinge has already completed a master’s degree and is preparing for the next stage of his academic journey.

Willeinge, who strongly believes in lifelong learning and making the most of opportunities, began building his academic foundation after completing his secondary education at Gabriel Taapopi Senior Secondary School, earning 35 points in six subjects.

He later enrolled at the University of Namibia (UNAM), where he pursued an Honours degree in Education, graduating in April 2024 at the age of 22.

“When I finish my undergraduate degree in April 2024, I had the opportunity to volunteer as a student assistant lecturer while also enrolling in a postgraduate program at the International University of Management (IUM),” he said.

Willeinge described the decision to volunteer as one of the most rewarding choices he has made.

He said the experience enabled him to gain practical knowledge and skills while completing his master's coursework.

“I focused on assisting students with research development, which is the most challenging phase for many. I guided and coached 20 students through their research projects,” he explained.

His efforts culminated in a major academic milestone when he was among the graduates awarded a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, Management and Policy during IUM’s 2026 Ongwediva Winter Convocation held last Friday.

The achievement was particularly significant given the small number of students who completed the programme.

Of the 45 postgraduate students who enrolled for the degree, only 4 successfully graduated.

Asked why many of his peers did not complete the programme, Willeinge said funding challenges and difficulties with research development were among the main obstacles.

Reflecting on his own journey, he acknowledged that success came with sacrifices.

“I had to withdraw from my side businesses to concentrate on my studies. I closed my branding business and put my artistic endeavors on hold, which allowed me to dedicate more time to studying and sleeping in libraries,” he said.

He encouraged students to develop study methods that suit their individual circumstances and said group study, perseverance and helping fellow students navigate research development challenges played an important role in his success.

While studying and volunteering without a permanent position, Willeinge found another way to sustain himself financially.

Securing a job

He said that during his free time as a volunteer lecturer at IUM, he assisted students with research development for a fee, charging between N$800 and N$1 000 per project, depending on the level of study.

“This has been my source of income. I don't just help them; I coach and guide them so they can develop the skills to assist others and generate their own income,” he said.

Willeinge expressed satisfaction that all the students he assisted with research completed their studies and graduated.

Despite earning a master's degree at 25, he says his academic journey is far from over.

When asked about his plans, Willeinge said he hopes to continue studying and would like to pursue a doctoral degree if funding becomes available.

“My goal in continuing my studies is to broaden my profile so that if I face challenges in securing a job, I can transition into different industries with more options. I encourage those who have the opportunity to further their education to do so,” he advised.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, IUM Vice Chancellor Professor Osmund Mwandemele reiterated the university’s commitment to developing graduates capable of contributing to socio-economic development locally, regionally and internationally.

The winter convocation saw approximately 1 225 students graduate across IUM’s three northern campuses.

Of these, 814 graduated from the Ongwediva campus, 387 from Nkurenkuru and 24 from Eenhana.

IUM founder David Namwandi said the ceremony coincided with the institution’s 22nd anniversary.

He noted that more than 35 000 graduates have completed their studies at the university since its establishment and are contributing to Namibia’s economy in various sectors.

Namwandi said the institution has expanded its footprint across Namibia by establishing campuses in regions including Ohangwena, Erongo, Khomas, Kavango West and Oshana, making it the country’s largest private university.

According to him, IUM has a student population of about 28 500 this academic year.

He also announced progress on a major healthcare project being undertaken by the institution.

According to Namwandi, IUM is constructing a state-of-the-art 120-bed private hospital approximately three kilometres northwest of Ondangwa in the Oshana Region.

“This hospital is expected to open its doors in mid-2027. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, it is envisioned to become one of the training hospitals in our country, providing opportunities for specialists and medical professionals,” he said.

The university reported enrolling more than 24,800 students last year. Student numbers have since increased to just over 28,470 this year, representing growth of approximately 14.5%.