ALL

For Juliana Bonita Fredericks, art is more than just expression. It is intention, innovation and a way to build something meaningful. Along the way, she’s learned a key lesson for any creative, to treat her art not just as a passion, but as a business. From charcoal portraits to sustainable jewellery, her work reflects what it truly means to make creativity work for you.

Characterized by comfort, aesthetic living and experiences curated for social media, this lifestyle is increasingly visible among students. Yet behind the polished image lies an important question, are students genuinely improving their quality of life or are they deliberately placing themselves under financial strain?

At Valombola Vocational Training Centre (VTC), some trainees are doing more than just learning a trade. They are already building income through their skills. For one Bricklaying and Plastering trainee, Immanuel Nataneal the journey is not just about training but about creating a future with his own hands.

Peer pressure plays a significant role in shaping how students spend their money on campus. Many students feel compelled to align with the lifestyles of their peers, whether it’s through fashion, gadgets, or social activities. This often leads to spending that is driven more by the need for acceptance than actual necessity. As a result, students may find themselves making impulsive financial decisions that do not reflect their true financial capacity.

Financial literacy is the ability to understand how money works and how to manage it wisely. It includes budgeting, saving, and making smart financial decisions. As students, many of us are handling money independently for the first time, so financial literacy becomes essential. It helps us avoid unnecessary stress, stay focused on our studies, and build a strong financial foundation for the future.

UNAM Oshakati Campus students took a stylish trip down memory lane with their “Step Back in Time” event. Dressed in vintage outfits, they celebrated the classics, showing that timeless fashion and retro vibes never go out of style. From old-school hairstyles to iconic accessories, the campus was buzzing with nostalgia and creativity.

In a country where youth unemployment hovers around 37-44%, and many students depend on NSFAF allowances that sometimes arrive late, side hustles have become more than just "extra cash"-they are a lifeline for financial survival while studying at institutions like UNAM, NUST, or other tertiary campuses.

-Fritz Fredrik Fritz Frederik is the 2026 SRC Vice President at the River Higher Institute of Technology. Being a student comes with more than just tuition fees and accommodation costs. Beyond the obvious expenses, there are numerous hidden costs that quietly drain students’ finances over time. These everyday expenses often go unnoticed, yet they play a major role in why many students struggle financially. Some of the most common hidden costs include printing and stationery,

Instead of prioritising essential needs for the semester, some students immediately spend on lifestyle upgrades, expensive outings, new clothes, or high-end gadgets. While these purchases may feel rewarding in the moment, they often lead to financial strain later on. Another common issue is lending money to friends or family, which in many cases is never returned, leaving students with even less to survive on.

Budgeting doesn't have to be restrictive. It’s about awareness and smart planning. Start by tracking every expense for one month to understand exactly where your money is going. Break your spending into “needs” (rent, groceries, utilities) and “wants” (eating out, entertainment, shopping). Once you see where your money goes, you can set up a realistic monthly budget that covers essentials and sets limits for your non-essential spending.

The Department of Digital Arts and Animation, in partnership with the Namibia Film Commission, hosted the annual Film Week at Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), which took place from 12 to 15 March 2026 in the Science and Technology Building.

NUST SRC for the School of Built Environment, Naemi Paulus, shared her view of the institution’s driving force toward innovation, amid the upcoming Independence celebrations. She highlights how students are using research, technology, and entrepreneurship to address real challenges in Namibia and contribute to national development.

(by Isabel Alice) As Namibia continues to grow and shape its future, young people play a critical role in driving development and innovation. Institutions like Namibia Institute of Technology are helping to equip students with the practical knowledge and technical skills needed to build a more self-reliant nation. In a world where industries are evolving rapidly, technical and vocational training is becoming one of the strongest foundations for economic independence and yout

(By Délcio Da Cunha) Language is more than just a medium of communication; it is the foundation of cultural identity. In Namibia, a country rich in cultural diversity, language plays a critical role in preserving the traditions, histories, and values that define our communities. Through language, stories are passed down, customs are maintained, and a collective sense of belonging is nurtured. It is through our languages that the essence of Namibia’s cultural heritage continue

Every year, independence arrives in Namibia with a ceremony, flags lifted into the March sky, and a collective pause to remember how far we have come. But when the music fades and the day settles into ordinary life, a quieter question lingers for many young Namibians (or so I’d like to think): what does it actually mean to be free now? In 1990, independence was unmistakable.

At the heart of this system are young Welwitchia students who recognise the importance of healthcare in Namibia.

The event brought together teams from UNAM Main Campus, UNAM Khomasdal Campus and UNAM Hage Geingob Campus,creating an atmosphere filled with excitement, cheers and friendly rivalry. Hosted at the Main Campus court, the face-off attracted students who came out to support their residence teams with the UNAM Rubies cheerleading squad adding energy and spirit to the stands.

-by Simeon Simon Simeon Simon, Head of Engineering Student Representative Council at RHIT As Namibia continues to reflect on its journey since independence, higher education remains one of the most powerful tools for shaping the nation’s future. Over the years, the country has made significant progress in expanding access to tertiary education, ensuring that more young people are equipped to contribute meaningfully to national development. A System Transformed Since gaining i

For Ottilie Andreas, a student leader and passionate advocate for youth participation, Namibia’s independence is more than a historical milestone; it is a living responsibility. As the country reflects on its democratic journey, she believes young people must understand their role in protecting and strengthening the freedoms that were hard-won.

For Sheya Nangombe, Student Representative Council (SRC) for Internal Affairs at Triumphant College, being Namibian means taking pride in the country and embracing its rich heritage. He believes independence has created opportunities for young people to shape the nation through leadership, education and innovation.