Education, Independence and Pride: UNAM Students Shaping Namibia’s Future

(By Kimberley-Rose Madzima)

Education represents one of the most significant benefits of independence, offering the tools to grow personally, contribute to society and help shape the future of the nation.

We spoke with Sakarias Nangolo, the Student Representative Council (SRC) Vice President at the Hifikepunye Pohamba Campus of the University of Namibia, who also serves as the Congress Deputy President for all 12 UNAM campuses.

For Nangolo, the 36-year milestone represents a shift in responsibility for Namibia’s younger generation.

“For us, 36 years of independence represents the transition from liberation to realization. While our parents fought to be recognized as human beings in their own land, our generation’s struggle has shifted toward economic emancipation and intellectual excellence. It is now our responsibility to ensure that the freedom won on the battlefield is felt in our classrooms, boardrooms and innovation hubs,” he said.

He explains that independence opened doors that were once closed to many citizens under colonial rule.

“Independence broke the chains of Bantu Education and the barriers that once restricted access to knowledge. Today, the University of Namibia stands as a testament to that progress. We no longer study to be subordinates; we study to become architects of our own industries. Because of independence, a child from a rural village in Omusati or a township in Windhoek can pursue careers in medicine, engineering or law”.

For Nangolo, being Namibian is also deeply connected to the values that unite the country’s diverse communities.

“Being Namibian means carrying a spirit of resilience and Ubuntu. I am proud of our peace, which is a rare and valuable treasure on this continent. I am also proud of our diversity and the way our people remain united despite our many cultures. To be Namibian is to know that although we are a small nation, our potential is limitless,” he said.

As a student leader representing thousands of students across UNAM’s campuses, Nangolo says his role has given him a broader perspective on leadership and national development.

“My role has taught me that leadership is about bridging gaps. It means ensuring that a student at a satellite campus feels just as heard and empowered as one at the main campus. UNAM is a reflection of Namibia itself. If we can foster unity, integrity and problem-solving across our 12 campuses, we are also helping to build a stronger nation,” he said.

He believes students have a vital role to play in shaping Namibia’s future, particularly by using education to address real challenges facing the country.

“Education should not only prepare students to find jobs; it should empower them to create them. Students can contribute by applying global knowledge to local challenges, whether it is addressing water scarcity, improving food security or advocating for policies that support social justice and innovation,” he noted.

Nangolo’s message to young Namibians is simple ’’Do not let the sacrifices of the past be wasted through complacency. Our forefathers gave us the land and it is now our responsibility to give it value. Be bold, stay curious and use your education as a tool to fight poverty, inequality and ignorance.”

You can find him on instagram @nangolosakaria01