Zebaldt Ngaruka

Namibia continues to make steady progress in its quest to uplift marginalised communities.

Matambo Khaled Kambila became the first student from the  marginalised San community to graduate in the field of agriculture at the University of Namibia since independence.

The 24-year-old was capped on Friday with an Agriculture Crop Production and Animal Science Diploma at Unam’s Ogongo campus in the Omusati region. In an interview with New Era, Kambila said his journey was not a stroll through a lush oasis; it was a trek across arid plains.

“Even when the winds of adversity threatened to topple me, like delayed allowances that shrouded my first year in uncertainty, I found shelter in a haven of support,” he said.

He said his qualification is not a mere passport to a government position, but a master key  unlocking a treasure trove of possibilities in both crop and animal husbandry.

The dedicated graduate is delving deeper into the field of crop production through a bachelor’s degree.

“I am not aiming for a job at the moment, but I want to study further as I appreciate the government for paying my school fees,” said Kambila.

He singled out the students support office and Christopher Mberema as his guiding stars, who not only offered a financial lifeline, but played a crucial role in his education. The graduate was also motivated by his community, which has brilliant minds and boundless potential, but some are not fortunate enough to finish their studies. “Their stories fuel my passion, a burning desire to declare that education is our shield against marginalisation,” stated Kambila.Asked whether he would like to work in his native Tsumkwe settlement once he has completed his studies, he said he would love to work in the settlement, but would not necessarily look for a job, but to do something that would provide work to the masses in Tsumkwe.

“I don’t want to be employed alone. There are a lot of unemployed people here. Projects here will be ideal for employment creation,
and I want to be an entrepreneur as well,” he noted.

The graduate furthermore told this publication that he was also motivated by the unwavering commitment to education displayed by the youth, and that served as a constant source of inspiration.

“Let’s become architects of change, wielding the knowledge and expertise honed at Unam’s Ogongo to build a stronger San community, brick by solid brick,” he urged.

Despite commending the government’s efforts in providing equal access to education, the outspoken Kambila opined that it is crucial to recognise that transplanting a San student far from familiar surroundings, with minimal support, can be a recipe for isolation and discouragement.

Thus, he requested a more holistic approach with robust support structures for out-of-town students, which would be a transformative step.

The 24-year-old also sends, a strong
message to San learners countrywide, saying that they must embrace education as it is the most potent weapon in the fight for a brighter future. “Do not see it as a burden, but remember, if I could weather them, so can you. The knowledge you acquire will empower not only you, but your entire community,” he said.

He also called on San learners to break the chains of marginalisation, and urged them to deploy the skills and knowledge they gained to become catalysts for change within the community.

“Let education be the bridge that connects us to a future brimming with opportunities,
 a future where the San people not only stand tall but stand proud,” Kambila added.

The graduate started his primary education at Omatako Primary School, and completed grade 12 at Tsumkwe Secondary School.

-zngaruka@yahoo.com