The International University of Management (IUM) continued its tradition of excellence last Friday, conferring qualifications upon 832 students during its vibrant summer convocation ceremony at the institution’s main campus.
This significant milestone marks the culmination of a successful academic year, bringing the total number of graduates for 2023 to an impressive 2 804.
This year’s success builds upon the foundation laid during IUM’s winter graduation ceremony in May, where 1 972 students received their well-deserved qualifications
IUM founder, David Namwandi expressed his immense satisfaction with the achievements of the graduates, saying, “The nation is extremely happy with you all. We know the extremely difficult study conditions you went through, especially during the Covid-19 wave and its impact. Still, you forged ahead, and today here you are receiving the fruits of your efforts! You are the true heroes and heroines of the century.”
He emphasised the significance of higher education in empowering individuals and contributing to the betterment of society.
“You should always feel that you are counted and your life has ultimate significance, as there is no zero person on earth. Everyone was born with the purpose of filling a niche,” Namwandi continued.
He added that Namibia, just like other developing nations, is faced with youth unemployment. It is against this background that IUM decided to embark on 21st century skills training, and to include entrepreneurial components in all mounted programmes.
The aim of embedding entrepreneurial components in all programmes is to ensure the flexibility and mobility of graduates to try avenues other than the fields in which they are trained when it comes to employment and job creation.
Last year, IUM produced 2 404 graduates.
Namwandi also extended an invitation to graduates with bankable business plans to apply for seed capital, saying “…the ball is in your court.”
Meanwhile, Students Representative Council president Loide Nghuulondo encouraged the graduates to put their skills and knowledge to good use.
“Don’t be limited by social norms or expectations. Break free from any constraints, and confidently utilise the skills you have acquired within these walls to make a significant impact in your community.
It is imperative that you remember the vision and mission of your university. That is, you are not trained to be job-seekers, but job and wealth-creators. This progressive mindset, instilled in us by our esteemed founder, emphasises our role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation and making a difference in our communities. Therefore, carry this entrepreneurial spirit with you as you venture into the professional world, creating opportunities not only for yourselves, but for others locally and internationally,” she said.
“As you embark on your respective career paths, strive for excellence, and represent our alma mater with distinction. Let your achievements and contributions become a testament to the quality of education imparted by this esteemed institution,” she added.