Spring 2025: UNAM graduates soar
From PhDs to part-time learners, the Class of 2025 embodies resilience, dedication and the power of lifelong learning.
The University of Namibia (UNAM) held its spring 2025 graduation ceremony on 8 October at the Mercure Hotel in Windhoek, celebrating another milestone in academic excellence and national development.
Presided over by Vice Chancellor Prof Kenneth Matengu, the event brought together hundreds of graduates, families and staff to honour Namibia’s newest scholars, educators and researchers. Qualifications ranging from diplomas to doctoral degrees were conferred upon the recipients.
Matengu congratulated the Class of 2025 for their determination and perseverance, urging them to carry UNAM’s values into their professional lives. “Your UNAM qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead, innovate and make a meaningful impact,” he noted.
This year’s class included a significant number of graduates from the Faculty of Education and Human Sciences, reflecting Namibia’s continued investment in education. Notable doctoral recipients included Dr Havelinus Shemuketa, who studied barriers to effective teaching evaluation; Dr Lazarus Gawazah, who explored computer-assisted language learning; and Dr Oiva Nauyoma, whose research analysed President Hage Geingob’s Covid-19 addresses.
Among the graduates was Danielle Nitschke, who earned a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education while working full-time in the corporate sector. Nitschke explained, “I wanted to challenge myself and finish something meaningful.” As a distance student, she had limited interaction with lecturers but valued the few in-person sessions where she connected with her classmates.
Balancing work, life and studies was her greatest challenge. “There were nights I was exhausted, and I failed a few times, but I learned consistency matters more than perfection,” she said. Nitschke also highlighted the importance of rest: “You can’t pour from an empty cup”.
University taught her patience and resilience, and the skill she’s most proud of developing is discipline.
Looking ahead, Nitschke plans to continue learning while gaining more work experience. She hopes to help others grow through education, mentorship, and career guidance, aiming for a balanced and meaningful life.
As the ceremony concluded, graduates were reminded to stay connected through the UNAM Alumni Association, which offers mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. The Spring 2025 Graduation celebrated not only academic success but also UNAM’s mission to produce innovative, committed and service-driven leaders.
Presided over by Vice Chancellor Prof Kenneth Matengu, the event brought together hundreds of graduates, families and staff to honour Namibia’s newest scholars, educators and researchers. Qualifications ranging from diplomas to doctoral degrees were conferred upon the recipients.
Matengu congratulated the Class of 2025 for their determination and perseverance, urging them to carry UNAM’s values into their professional lives. “Your UNAM qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead, innovate and make a meaningful impact,” he noted.
This year’s class included a significant number of graduates from the Faculty of Education and Human Sciences, reflecting Namibia’s continued investment in education. Notable doctoral recipients included Dr Havelinus Shemuketa, who studied barriers to effective teaching evaluation; Dr Lazarus Gawazah, who explored computer-assisted language learning; and Dr Oiva Nauyoma, whose research analysed President Hage Geingob’s Covid-19 addresses.
Among the graduates was Danielle Nitschke, who earned a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education while working full-time in the corporate sector. Nitschke explained, “I wanted to challenge myself and finish something meaningful.” As a distance student, she had limited interaction with lecturers but valued the few in-person sessions where she connected with her classmates.
Balancing work, life and studies was her greatest challenge. “There were nights I was exhausted, and I failed a few times, but I learned consistency matters more than perfection,” she said. Nitschke also highlighted the importance of rest: “You can’t pour from an empty cup”.
University taught her patience and resilience, and the skill she’s most proud of developing is discipline.
Looking ahead, Nitschke plans to continue learning while gaining more work experience. She hopes to help others grow through education, mentorship, and career guidance, aiming for a balanced and meaningful life.
As the ceremony concluded, graduates were reminded to stay connected through the UNAM Alumni Association, which offers mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. The Spring 2025 Graduation celebrated not only academic success but also UNAM’s mission to produce innovative, committed and service-driven leaders.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article