RHIT: A year of growth, innovation, and transformation

By: Sylvia Hashondali

In an interview with Campus Connect, Ms. Tusnelde Naftal, the Marketing and Corporate Communication Officer for the River Higher Institute of Technology, reflected on the institution’s significant achievements, growth, and development throughout 2025. Her insights reveal a year marked by academic expansion, strengthened partnerships, and a strong focus on student empowerment. Here is what she had to say:

1. Looking back at 2025, what would you say were River Higher Institute’s proudest milestones or achievements this year? 

In 2025, River Higher Institute of Technology celebrated several key milestones, including the successful registration of more programmes, improvement in academic performance, and the strengthening of industry partnerships. A key highlight was our 2025 Graduation Ceremony, where over 500 students proudly graduated. We also launched the Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery Science, marking a significant expansion of our academic portfolio.

 2. How has the institution grown or evolved academically or structurally over the past year? 

Academically, the institute enhanced curriculum delivery through updated teaching methodologies. Structurally, we improved campus facilities, upgraded our technological infrastructure, and refined internal processes to ensure smoother administrative and academic operations.

 3. How has River Higher continued to uphold its mission of empowering students through technology and innovation?

River Higher reinforced its commitment by integrating digital learning tools, promoting tech-driven teaching methods, and encouraging innovation focused projects. Students benefited from enhanced access to online platforms and workshops.

 4. What student-led initiatives or success stories stood out this year?

 This year, several student-led initiatives shone brightly from community outreach activities and peer-learning groups to innovative projects showcased at exhibitions. Many students also represented the institution in internships, and industry engagements, earning recognition for their excellence.

 5. How has the institute supported students in achieving both academic excellence and personal growth in 2025?

River Higher provided continuous support through tutoring, revision classes, mentorship programmes, and accessible academic resources. Beyond academics, the institute fostered personal development through leadership activities. 

6. In what ways has River Higher contributed to community development or national goals this year? 

The institute remained committed to community upliftment through vocational training, outreach programmes, and partnerships that support local development. Our graduates contributed to national goals by entering the workforce with relevant skills, particularly in fields aligned with Namibia’s human capital needs. 

7. How has technology or research been leveraged to improve learning and teaching at RiverHigher in 2025?

Technology played a vital role in streamlining assessments, enabling blended learning, and enhancing classroom engagement. Lecturers continued adopting digital tools, while research activities, though still developing, focused on improving teaching practices and understanding student needs for better academic outcomes.

 8. What lessons has the institute learned from 2025 that will shape its goals or strategies for 2026? 

The key lessons include the importance of early academic interventions, continuous lecturer development, strong student support systems, and the value of partnerships. These insights will guide 2026 strategies focused on quality enhancement, capacity building, and sustained institutional growth.

 9. What message would River Higher’s leadership like to share with current and future students as the year ends?

River Higher’s leadership extends heartfelt appreciation to all students for their dedication and resilience. As we close the year, we encourage both current and future students to stay committed, embrace innovation, and trust the process. The institute remains steadfast in its mission to educate, and elevate every student who walks through its doors.