Staff Writer
Renewed ambition and shared purpose took centre stage on 5 June 2025, as the University of Namibia (Unam) and the Bank of Namibia (BoN) sealed the continuation of a transformative partnership.
By extending their long-standing cooperation agreement, which was first established in 2014, both institutions have reinforced their promise to advance education, research, and national development for another five years.
At a signing ceremony hosted at BoN’s head office in Windhoek, acting vice chancellor Ellen Ndeshi Namhila and BoN deputy governor Leonie Dunn formally committed to this next chapter.
The renewed agreement not only cements a decade of collaboration but also propels both Unam and BoN toward new heights of academic excellence and national impact.
By promoting closer linkages between the bank and the university, the agreement encourages ongoing knowledge exchange and mutual support in areas of shared interest.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, BoN will continue to provide highly qualified staff, especially those holding Ph.D. degrees, to serve as part-time lecturers within Unam’s faculty of commerce, management and law.
This support has significantly enhanced the teaching and learning experience within the faculty.
The renewed agreement will also see both institutions deepen collaboration on research projects addressing critical economic and social development challenges.
These initiatives are aligned with Namibia’s Vision 2030 and National Development Plans, ensuring that research efforts directly support the nation’s growth.
Further, the partnership will facilitate the organisation of symposia, conferences, short courses, and knowledge exchange meetings, all of which are designed to enrich academic and professional development for both Unam staff and students.
Namhila added, “This renewed agreement extends our collaboration to advance research, foster interdisciplinary expertise and equip students with relevant skills in fields such as economics, cybersecurity, and related domains of shared interest.
“Collectively, we are strengthening Namibia’s capacity for innovation and evidence-based policymaking. We thank the Bank of Namibia for its steadfast support and partnership,” she said.
During the signing ceremony, BoN deputy governor Leonie Dunn emphasised: “The Bank of Namibia is proud to continue supporting the academic landscape of Namibia. This partnership is not only a demonstration of our commitment to education but also to building a knowledge-based economy.”
Through this renewed agreement, Unam and the Bank of Namibia will continue to deliver tangible benefits to students, faculty, and the broader society, helping to nurture a skilled professional workforce and supporting evidence-based national progress.
