Unam inaugurates multimillion-dollar student hostel

THE University of Namibia (Unam) has inaugurated a state-of-the-art student accommodation facility at its José Eduardo dos Santos campus at Ongwediva on Wednesday.

The hostel’s construction was funded by Germany through a bilateral cooperation agreement between the two countries.

Itah Kandji-Murangi, the minister of higher education, training and innovation, said the facility was constructed at a cost of five million euros (N$101,4 million).

“Today, we are here to celebrate the fruitful outcomes of the grant provided for the expansion of the university at the José Eduardo dos Santos campus.

“An initial funding of 8,5 million euro (N$172,4 million) was allocated towards the Development of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, successfully inaugurated in 2018, and proudly called the ‘German Wing’,” she said.

She said the grant has also catered for furniture and equipment, while additional development has recently been approved.

Unam vice chancellor Kenneth Matengu said the new facility will allow students to focus on their studies and contribute effectively to the development of the country.

“Education is not just about books, bricks and motor. With the new hostel complex, we can provide a safe and supportive environment for our engineering students to perform better and succeed. This will enable them to focus on their studies and contribute to the development of our country.

“I know they still need sport facilities for all sport codes. We are working on that,” he said.

He said by investing in engineering education, Namibia could provide access to electricity in remote areas, which would improve the quality of life of millions of people.

“Additionally, engineering can contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture and infrastructure.

“By implementing smart water management systems and developing innovative building materials, engineers can promote sustainable development and reduce the impact of climate change.

“Engineers can also provide reliable systems for post-harvest losses,” Matengu said.

The new hostel will accommodate more than 200 students.