Africa-Press – Namibia.
The National Organisation of Parents in Education (NAOPE) has welcomed the government’s decision to abolish tertiary registration fees starting in 2026, describing it as a “historic milestone” that will transform access to higher education in Namibia.
NAOPE said eliminating registration fees is a big step towards ensuring inclusive and equitable education for all Namibians, especially those from underprivileged and marginalized backgrounds.
The interim president of NAOPE, Paulus Mbandu Hawanga, said, financial limitations have made it difficult for many families to send their children to universities for a long time, as such parents and students around the nation now have more optimism.
Hawanga emphasised that the government’s dedication to national development and educational equity is reflected in the decision.
“The government is eliminating one of the main obstacles to education by doing away with tertiary registration fees. More young Namibians would be able to fulfil their aspirations, make significant economic contributions, and contribute to the development of a more inclusive society as a result,” he said.
To ensure equal representation, the organization suggests implementing a regional quota system that would distribute tertiary admission spots according to population size.
According to Hawanga, “equitable education” means that every Namibian child, whether from Zambezi, Omaheke, or Kunene, should have the same opportunity to access higher learning.
Strong support for the decision was also expressed by Salome Kambala, NAOPE secretary for information, communication, and publicity, who emphasised the significance of thorough planning.
“While we applaud this historic policy, it must be implemented with transparency and inclusivity. We must make sure that no region or community is left behind and that funding and admissions reflect the diversity of Namibia’s population,” Kambala stated,
The organization also praised the government’s people-centered approach to education, pointing to the Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare’s recent pledge to construct a new public school in Ndama East, Rundu, after community consultations.
Echoing President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s previous request for moral and spiritual rebirth in schools, NAOPE used the occasion to reiterate its earlier call for the return of Bible studies and Sunday school programmes in all educational levels. According to the group, including faith-based ideas can support students’ development of cultural values, discipline and respect.
NAOPE stated that it will formally establish its national structure in Rundu, Kavango East Region, as part of its expanding national presence. The organization, which has representatives in practically every region, was established in 2014.
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