Allexer Namundjembo
The Students Union of Namibia (SUN) has urged calm among students following the suspension of Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) vice chancellor Erold Naomab.
Speaking to the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday, SUN spokesperson Johannes Malapi said the suspension has stirred concern among students, but learning and administration will continue as normal.
“Let it be unequivocally stated, the institution is an enduring legal entity, not contingent upon the presence or absence of any singular office bearer. The academic and administrative machinery of Nust remains fully operational,” he said.
Malapi assured students that all academic activities, including the processing of continuous assessment marks, will continue without interruption.
“The allegations precipitating this suspension fall squarely within the jurisdiction of competent legal and oversight authorities. We shall not encroach upon due process nor pre-empt the outcome of any lawful inquiry. As the Student Union of Namibia (SUN), our mandate is to safeguard the academic and welfare interests of students, not to adjudicate staff-related matters,” he said.
He urged students to remain united, focused, and patient.
“Let us continue to engage our studies with diligence and avoid speculation that undermines the integrity of these proceedings,” Malapi added.
Namibia National Students Organisation (Nanso) spokesperson Jessy Abraham said the student body would not comment until the investigation is complete.
“We are waiting till the results of the investigation are released and can thus not comment until the investigation is concluded,” Abraham said.
On Tuesday, the Nust Council suspended Naomab and launched a forensic investigation into allegations of mismanagement at the university.
Its Interim Council chairperson, Leake Hangala, confirmed that the Council resolved to commission an independent probe.
The university then appointed Andrew Niikondo to act as vice chancellor, while Erling Kavita will serve as acting deputy vice chancellor for teaching, learning and technology.
