Rudolf Gaiseb
The Student Union of Namibia (SUN) wants the Namibian Financial Assistance Fund to resume ‘one laptop, one student policy’, and fund mature age entry students at tertiary institutions.
This was said by new SUN president Shikesho Natangwe during the inauguration of the new national executive committee last week.
“Education should be accessible to all, regardless of age. We will advocate funding opportunities for mature age students who wish to return to school and further their education, breaking down barriers that have long excluded them and [to study] at any universities of their choice,” he said.
In this digital age, a laptop is not a luxury but a necessity, the student leader said.
“We will push for the ‘one student, one laptop’ policy to ensure that every student, regardless of their financial background, has the technology they need to thrive in their studies,” he said.
Furthermore, the union also pronounced itself on the proposed N$500 universal basic income grant (BIG).
Natangwe said while the idea of a BIG is bona fide, the proposed amount is a drop in the ocean.
“We will push for more meaningful financial support that addresses the cost of living and educational expenses. The government should construct more schools, hospitals and industries. In that way, many youths will be recruited.
“Unemployment among young people is a crisis that cannot be ignored. We will work with stakeholders to implement an entrepreneurship curriculum for all course students, preparing students to be employment creators,” he noted. Regarding the pressing issue of lack of affordable and safe accommodation, which continues to be a pressing issue for many students, Natangwe stated: “We will work tirelessly to address the enactment of the Rent Control Bill, which policymakers are sleeping in duty”.
The union stated that the lack of food feeding programmes at some schools reflects the challenges and injustices in the country’s education system.
“No student should have to learn on an empty stomach. We will push for food feeding programmes at all schools, especially in remote areas and in communities where vulnerability is high, ensuring that every child has the nutrition they need to focus and study. These issues are not just items on an agenda. They are the realities that our students face every day,” he asserted.
The newly-elected 12-member SUN national executive committee includes Natangwe, Petrina Immanuel, Johannes Malapi, Otilie Kavau, Hilma Amadhila, Rejoice Mupupa, Frieda Iimene, Shingereshu Vumbu, Intelligence Katire, Johanna Nambahu, Josef Nghidipo and Teofelus Haufiku.