The Namibia College of Open Learning (Namcol) is facing accusations of unfair labour practices and withholding salaries after retrenching over 100 staff members. The affected employees were on fixed-term contracts.
The move has sparked outrage among affected employees, some of whom claim to have served the institution for the past 20 years.
Mutarere Nguvauva, a spokesperson for the retrenched workers, stated that Namcol has “robbed them of their salaries”.
“Most of the work at the college was done by the fixed-term contractors and tutors. As we speak, some tutors were paid yesterday morning. Some were paid last week Saturday,” he said.
This highlights an alleged discrepancy in payment schedules and treatment among different categories of employees.
Nguvauva further alleged that Namcol failed to adhere to its own policies and relevant laws during the retrenchment process.
In a statement issued by Namcol, its CEO Ngepathimo Kadhila said the affected employees were informed on 16 May 2025 about a board of governors’ resolution of 28 April.
That resolution sought to address long-standing concerns regarding fixed-term contracts, particularly in light of the changing legal and governance landscape.
The decision was not a reflection of the performance or dedication of the affected staff but rather a necessary step to ensure legal compliance, accountability and sustainability.
“Namcol acknowledges the concerns and discontent among some fixed-term staff and recognises the challenges associated with such changes.
The college remains committed to open engagement with all stakeholders, including affected employees and labour representatives, to ensure long-term institutional sustainability while continuing to provide quality education to all Namibians,” said the CEO.
He added that, over the years, Namcol has relied on fixed-term contracts to support its operations, resulting in approximately 49% of the workforce being employed under such arrangements.
While this structure supported critical staffing needs, the changing legal and governance landscape required a review.
“As a transitional measure, the board approved the extension of contracts for employees in critical positions until November 2025, provided they meet the required qualification criteria. These extended contracts will include revised terms clearly stating that no further renewals will occur beyond November 2025,” he said.