The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) has launched the country’s first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Supply Chain Management, a move aimed at strengthening skills in a sector seen as key to economic growth. 

The programme, which is set to begin in May 2026, comes at a time when Namibia is working to position itself as a regional logistics hub. It is designed to equip candidates with advanced knowledge and practical research skills to tackle challenges in logistics, transport, procurement, warehousing and distribution. 

Speaking at the launch, Senior Transport and Logistics Lecturer Professor Smart Dumba said the new qualification responds directly to national needs. 

He said both the Fifth National Development Plan (NDP5) and the Namibia Logistics Hub Master Plan have identified a shortage of high-level skills in logistics and supply chain management. 

“This programme seeks to fill that gap by training experts who can contribute to both industry and policy development,” Dumba said. 

Namibia’s location on the southwest coast of Africa gives it a strategic advantage as a gateway for landlocked countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). 

Key transport corridors such as Walvis Bay are already used to move goods into neighbouring countries, but experts say more research and innovation are needed to improve efficiency and competitiveness. 

The new PhD programme will focus on areas such as corridor development, regional trade integration, port performance, maritime logistics and digital supply chains. It will also explore emerging topics like smart corridors and environmentally sustainable logistics. 

Industry players have long raised concerns about the shortage of specialised skills in Namibia’s logistics sector. 

The country relies heavily on imports and exports, making efficient supply chains critical for business, job creation and economic stability. Delays at ports, high transport costs, and limited research capacity have been among the challenges affecting growth. 

He added that the programme is expected to produce graduates who can solve these problems through research and innovation. 

The university also hopes to strengthen collaboration with industry and government through the work of doctoral candidates. 

The programme is open to applicants with a strong academic background in logistics, supply chain management or related fields. Candidates must hold a recognised master’s degree at NQF Level 9 or an equivalent qualification. 

They will also be required to submit a draft research concept note and take part in a pre-selection interview. 

For those applying from industry, at least two years of relevant work experience are required. 

Dumba said the introduction of the PhD aligns with broader efforts to build local capacity and reduce reliance on foreign expertise. 

By developing home-grown specialists, the country aims to improve the performance of its transport and logistics systems and support regional trade. 

Applications for the programme are now open, with the first intake expected later this year, ahead of the May 2026 start. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na