NUST, Unam await final directive from task force on free education
Detailed plan expected in August
Both universities are actively participating in the national consultations while also mapping out what the shift could mean for their operations.
As government's plan to introduce free tertiary education in 2026 takes shape, the country’s state-owned universities – the University of Namibia (Unam) and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) – have begun putting internal structures in place while awaiting final direction from the national task force.
The education, arts and culture ministry has put together a task force to guide the implementation process, with a detailed plan expected by August.
Both universities are actively participating in the national consultations while also mapping out what the shift could mean for their operations.
Speaking to the Network Media Hub (NMH), NUST spokesperson Cindy Van Wyk said the institution is fully involved in the process alongside relevant stakeholders.
“NUST is duly represented on the task force and is actively contributing to its consultative process,” she confirmed.
“We will be guided by the outcomes and directives of this ministerial initiative. We remain committed to supporting the development of a sustainable and equitable model for free higher education as envisioned by the ministry," Van Wyk added.
At Unam, preparations are also underway.
University spokesperson Simon Namesho confirmed that an internal committee has been set up to ensure readiness for the transition.
“This includes assessing associated costs and possible implications for the university,” he said.
Education drive
While no changes have yet been made to admissions policies or programme offerings, Unam is bracing for a possible surge in enrolments – a natural effect of removing financial barriers to entry.
“We recognise that increased enrolment may necessitate enhancements to existing facilities and administrative capacities,” Namesho noted. “Our planning will comprehensively address infrastructure and hidden costs to ensure continued quality education delivery.”
With the full implementation framework still under discussion, both institutions remain in a phase of preparation and consultation.
The next steps will largely depend on the final recommendations from the national task force later this year.
Crucially, details on how the free education initiative will be funded have not yet been disclosed.
The education, arts and culture ministry has put together a task force to guide the implementation process, with a detailed plan expected by August.
Both universities are actively participating in the national consultations while also mapping out what the shift could mean for their operations.
Speaking to the Network Media Hub (NMH), NUST spokesperson Cindy Van Wyk said the institution is fully involved in the process alongside relevant stakeholders.
“NUST is duly represented on the task force and is actively contributing to its consultative process,” she confirmed.
“We will be guided by the outcomes and directives of this ministerial initiative. We remain committed to supporting the development of a sustainable and equitable model for free higher education as envisioned by the ministry," Van Wyk added.
At Unam, preparations are also underway.
University spokesperson Simon Namesho confirmed that an internal committee has been set up to ensure readiness for the transition.
“This includes assessing associated costs and possible implications for the university,” he said.
Education drive
While no changes have yet been made to admissions policies or programme offerings, Unam is bracing for a possible surge in enrolments – a natural effect of removing financial barriers to entry.
“We recognise that increased enrolment may necessitate enhancements to existing facilities and administrative capacities,” Namesho noted. “Our planning will comprehensively address infrastructure and hidden costs to ensure continued quality education delivery.”
With the full implementation framework still under discussion, both institutions remain in a phase of preparation and consultation.
The next steps will largely depend on the final recommendations from the national task force later this year.
Crucially, details on how the free education initiative will be funded have not yet been disclosed.
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