University business school joins global association

The Harold Pupkewitz Graduate School of Business at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) has been admitted as a member of the global Business Graduates Association (BGA).

The university’s vice chancellor, Erold Naomab, in a speech read on his behalf by Andrew Niikondo yesterday, said the attainment of the BGA’s bronze membership is more than a milestone for the institution.

“It is a reflection of our collective standing as a university. The Harold Pupkewitz Graduate School of Business (HP-GSB)is the first and only one in Namibia to attain this prestigious distinction, which reinforces our commitment to global excellence,” he said.

Naomab said this membership opens doors to valuable opportunities for collaboration and professional development.

“By joining the BGA, the HP-GSB connects to a global network of esteemed institutions, allowing us to enhance our educational offerings and drive innovation in our programmes,” he said.

The vice chancellor said not only will the university benefit from this, but also the business sector, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“When we go out there to get more knowledge through this membership, we will pass it on to businesses, SMEs and engage in entrepreneurship training programmes,” he said.

Naomab said the membership aligns with the Nust Strategic Plan, particularly Goal 2 – leading research, innovation, partnership and entrepreneurship.

He said BGA membership complements Namibia’s broader national goals.

“By fostering high-quality education and research, we contribute to Namibia’s Vision 2030 objectives, which emphasises creating a skilled workforce that drives economic growth and innovation,” he said.

Explaining the criteria for membership, spokesperson Wency Ndjitaviua said the HP-GSB had to meet certain criteria to attain membership.

“Some graduate schools have applied and failed to get admission, because they failed the compliance test,” she said.

Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry acting chief executive Helena Mootseng said the BGA membership connects Namibian students to a global network of business schools and institutions.

“Whether participating in global forums, engaging with students from different parts of the world, or learning from renowned thought leaders, this membership expands our horizons beyond the classroom.

“We are now part of a global community that will enhance our learning experience and help us develop a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s business world,” she said.

Mootseng said students are always looking for ways to improve their employability and stand out in the competitive job market.

“Through the BGA, we will have access to various career services, including mentorship programmes, internships and connections to international employers,” she said.

In his closing remarks, Hylton Villet, a director at the HP-GSB, said the accreditation would help prospective students decide whether they want to study at the HP-GSB.

“Our ultimate goal is to position ourselves among the elite institutions of business education, and the BGA membership provides us with the tools and guidance necessary to reach that objective,” he said.

– email: matthew@namibian.com.na