Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Feni Hiveluah
Published on 2024-04-16 11:00:00
The University of Namibia (Unam) has achieved a significant milestone with the signing of an agreement by Vice Chancellor Kenneth Matengu to facilitate access to 970 million euros (N$19.5 billion) in funding for African universities on 11 April. This funding will have a transformative impact on Unam, enabling the expansion of academic offerings and infrastructure, particularly in areas that are aligned with the initiative’s focus on enhancing mobility and skill development.
According to Unam spokesperson Simon Namesho, the funding will support the development of new master’s and PhD programs, the enhancement of existing programs, and the establishment of partnerships with other African and European universities. These projects will specifically target areas such as digital and green technologies, which are crucial for the continent’s future development.
Namesho emphasizes that the initiative will not only support the mobility of Unam students and staff but also foster an exchange of knowledge and cultural experiences, enhancing the university’s international profile. The initiative will incorporate various measures to ensure effective skill development, including aligning academic curricula with current market needs and future job trends in the green and digital sectors.
Practical training and internships will be key components of the initiative, complementing theoretical learning and providing students with real-world experience. Partnerships with industry stakeholders will play a crucial role in offering students insights into the professional world. Additionally, strategies include upgrading infrastructure, adopting international practices in higher education, and creating a welcoming environment for international students.
Marketing and partnership efforts will aim to highlight the unique opportunities available in Africa, such as studying in diverse cultural settings, accessing natural resources for research, and engaging with fast-growing economies. This was confirmed in a statement released by the European Commission and the Pan-African University, expressing their commitment to working together under the Youth Mobility for Africa Flagship Initiative.
The funding, available through competitive bidding, will support projects including the Erasmus and Intra-Africa mobility schemes. This collaboration between European and African institutions signifies a powerful commitment to promoting education, mobility, and skill development across the continent.
In conclusion, the agreement signed by Unam’s Vice Chancellor opens up significant opportunities for the university to enhance its academic offerings, infrastructure, and international collaborations. The funding will play a crucial role in advancing education, promoting mobility, and equipping students with the skills needed for the future. It represents a major step forward in fostering partnership and collaboration between African and European universities for the benefit of students, staff, and the wider community.
Read the original article on The Namibian
