We lost a dedicated lecturer – Unam director

The director of the University of Namibia (Unam) Hifikepunye Pohamba campus at Ongwediva, Jacob Sheehama has described the late Ekning Nuusiku Shaanika as a valued member of the university community.

Shaanika (56) took her own life on campus yesterday morning. Sheehama said Shaanika was a dedicated scholar in education, specialising in social science and community education.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Ms Shaanika’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences during this difficult time go out to her family, friends, colleagues and all who knew her,” he said.

Oshana police spokesperson inspector Petrus Iimbili yesterday told The Namibian that Shaanika had attempted to take her own life last year, but it is not clear where Shaanika attempted to commit suicide then.

Shaanika’s body was discovered at about 07h30.

According to the northern campuses spokesperson, Linus Hamunyela, the deceased was staying on campus after her house allegedly burnt down about three weeks ago.

Hamunyela narrated that the deceased was a quiet person and did not show any signs of depression.

“About two to three weeks ago, her house burnt down and she moved in with a colleague whom she has been staying with until her demise earlier today. According to her housemate, Shaanika left the house early in the morning to go to work as usual and she did not show any strange behaviour,” he said.

According to her LinkedIn account, she had been lecturing at Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus from 1999, when the campus was known as the Ongwediva College of Education.

Attempts to get hold of Shaanika’s family yesterday proved futile as the family members refused to talk, saying The Namibian should contact the campus director.