Justicia Shipena
The Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) has appointed an external firm to carry out a forensic investigation into allegations of mismanagement by its vice chancellor, Erold Naomab — allegations the university had previously denied existed.
Nust Interim Council chairperson Leake Hangala said on Wednesday the decision was made to ensure an independent and transparent process following claims implicating the university’s top leadership.
“The council has resolved to initiate a forensic investigation to independently and impartially examine the allegations. This step underscores our commitment to accountability, ethical leadership, and good governance,” Hangala said.
The move comes after a 40-page dossier surfaced online in August, accusing Naomab and senior officials of irregular procurement, reckless spending, and abuse of authority.
The document, allegedly addressed to Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Director General Paulus Noa, also cited the absence of audited financial statements since 2019.
The dossier further alleged nepotistic appointments, inflated contracts, favouritism in tenders, a N$30 million “rebranding” project handled by a department without a communications mandate, and the purchase of a luxury bus disguised as a second-hand vehicle.
It also claimed Naomab was lobbying for reappointment beyond 2025 with support from chancellor Peter Katjavivi and that former Higher Education minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi benefited from university resources.
Three weeks ago, Nust dismissed the corruption claims contained in anonymous letters circulating on social media, saying it would not act on unverified allegations.
Despite that earlier stance, the council has now placed Naomab on precautionary suspension, effective 8 October 2025.
Hangala said the suspension aims to protect the integrity of the investigation. In the meantime, Andrew Nikondo has been appointed acting vice chancellor, while Erling Kavita will serve as acting deputy vice chancellor for teaching, learning, and technology.
“These measures were not taken lightly. Our focus remains on maintaining academic excellence, fostering innovation, and upholding the highest standards of integrity,” Hangala said.
In the dossier, whistleblowers demanded suspensions and a forensic probe by the ACC, warning that inaction would harm Nust’s credibility. At the time, the ACC confirmed that no formal complaint had been filed.
ACC director general Paulus Noa had then asked whistleblowers who had circulated a damning dossier against Naomab and other senior officials to submit sworn statements if their allegations were genuine.
Previously, Nust spokesperson Nashilongo Gervasius earlier urged stakeholders to use official grievance channels.
In August, the university reiterated that its council had resolved in 2024 not to consider anonymous submissions.
It said staff could use confidential grievance mechanisms and that credible allegations were reviewed by the governance, risk, and compliance office.
In 2023, the Namibia Public Workers Union (Napwu) had called for an urgent intervention by Nust and the then Ministry of Higher Education, following damning allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and nepotism at the public institution.
At the time, disgruntled employees had raised concerns over what they described as a blatant disregard for the Labour Act, the Nust human resource code, and principles of good governance.
The university’s management, under the leadership of Naomab, who had faced a series of controversies since assuming office in 2021, was accused of violating procedures during the restructuring process.
Naomab was also alleged to have interfered in the institution’s recruitment process.
