Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Minister of health and social services Esperance Luvindao has urged 52 health scholarship recipients to remain focused and disciplined as they begin their academic studies.
Speaking at the pre-service scholarship award ceremony on Wednesday, Luvindao stressed the importance of staying committed, especially as many students will be far from home and familiar support systems.
“You are embarking on a journey in a new environment, potentially far from home and far from familiar family and friends support systems. It is vital that you remain focused on your primary objective,” she said.
Luvindao warned students against falling into negative social habits such as alcohol and drug abuse.
She encouraged them to build positive networks, including study groups and relationships with lecturers and university support services.
“Your conduct reflects not only on yourselves but on the ministry and the nation that are investing so much in you. You are ambassadors of the Namibian nation and, more so, of the ministry of health and social services,” she said.
She reminded the students of their responsibility to submit regular progress reports and proof of registration and to honour the bonding agreements that require them to serve in the public health sector after graduation.
“This scholarship is an investment by the Namibian government in your future and, more significantly, an investment in the health and well-being of every citizen of this nation. Therefore, I implore you to approach your studies with the utmost seriousness, agility and unwavering commitment,” she said.
The scholarships are part of Project 2025, a three-year programme to train 450 health professionals in areas such as dental therapy and clinical technology, aimed at addressing skills shortages and improving healthcare across the country.
Luvindao also thanked parents and guardians, calling them “the unshaken pillar of support”, and encouraged them to continue supporting their children during their studies.
