Empowering the Next Generation: COTA Students Tapped into NACN’s Third Grant Cycle

(By: Ivy Gaaitsiwe)

Steve Banda

The National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) officially opened the third call for grant applications in its 2025/2026 funding cycle on 14 August 2025, with students from the College of the Arts (COTA) once again stepping up to seize the opportunity.

Committed to narrowing the persistent funding gap in the creative industry, the Council is offering support across a wide range of disciplines including studio arts, national and international event participation, performing arts, workshops, talent development and art-focused research.

Over the years, COTA students had shown a strong track record with NACN grants, consistently producing impactful and award winning work. Past beneficiaries have used the funding to launch exhibitions, attend global festivals and develop innovative community arts projects. Their success stories have not only elevated the institution’s standing within Namibia’s arts scene but have also demonstrated how targeted financial support can drive creative excellence and sustainable careers.

One such story is that of Steve Banda, a current NACN grant beneficiary and New Media Design student, who described how the funding came at a critical turning point in his life. “I was in a very difficult position, where I had to choose between livelihood and education. I thought to myself, ‘With some financial help, I can balance both,’” he said.

With the grant, Banda was able to shift his focus toward his studies, “It allowed me to allocate more of my time to school, where I have become one of the top students.” That stability gave him more than just academic success. “The feeling of security really helps with reduced stress and more confidence in my ability to outperform,” he added.

Looking ahead, he suggested that NACN could deepen its impact by “Introducing a higher stationery budget, especially for creatives in my industry. This will allow us to get laptops that can run design software.” As the NACN looks toward the future, it reaffirms its commitment to supporting emerging artists from institutions like COTA. The Council’s consistent investment in young creatives is more than just financial assistance, it’s a long-term strategy to build a robust, inclusive and economically viable creative sector in Namibia.

By encouraging students to apply and equipping them with the resources needed to thrive, NACN is not only fostering individual growth but also enriching the cultural and artistic fabric of the nation. In a landscape where the arts are often underfunded and undervalued, NACN’s support plays a vital role in empowering young creatives to pursue their passions professionally and sustainably.

By opening doors that might otherwise remain closed especially for students from undeserved backgrounds, the Council is helping to cultivate a new generation of storytellers, performers, designers and cultural leaders. Through continued funding and mentorship, NACN is actively contributing to the growth of a resilient and inclusive creative economy.

The consistent success of COTA students stands as proof of the incredible talent and potential that exists across Namibia’s youth. Looking ahead, greater cross-sector collaboration between government, education institutions and private partners will be essential to scale the impact of such programs.

Young artists will continue to develop their voices and visions shaping not only the future of Namibian arts, but also redefining how the nation sees itself and how it is seen by the world. As the creative sector evolves, NACN remains essential in ensuring that talent is not lost to financial hardship or lack of opportunity.

The Council’s vision of a thriving, accessible arts landscape is one where all Namibians regardless of background can see themselves represented, celebrated and supported. Through its grants, partnerships and advocacy, NACN is helping to build a future where creativity is not a luxury, but a powerful engine for cultural pride, economic development and social transformation.

COTA, as a leading institution in arts education, continues to be a vital incubator for this vision producing dynamic, socially engaged and globally minded artists who are equipped to lead and inspire the next chapter of Namibia’s creative journey