Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced last Thursday that her administration will implement free higher education at state universities and technical colleges beginning next year.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, sworn in as Namibia’s first female president last month, announced her State of the Nation address to Parliament.
“I am pleased to announce that from the next academic year, commencing 2026, tertiary education will become 100 per cent subsidised by the government,” she said.
Namibia already provides free education at public primary and secondary schools, though parents typically still cover costs for uniforms, stationery, books, and hostel fees.
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The new policy will eliminate tuition and registration fees at universities and colleges. There have been long-standing calls for the government to subsidise all education levels in the southern African nation of around 3 million people.
“We have heard your cries,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. She added that the policy aims to improve opportunities for young people, particularly in light of challenges like youth unemployment and poverty.
According to official figures, about 2.1 million Namibians are under the age of 35.
Two of Namibia’s seven universities are state-run and will offer free education under the policy. Additionally, all seven of its government-operated vocational training centres will no longer charge tuition fees.
By Joseph Mambili
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