The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) will keep applications for its Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences programme closed for the 2027 academic year as it addresses practical training capacity constraints affecting students from the 2025 intake.
The Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, told the National Assembly that the 2025 intake comprised 150 students, the largest since the programme was established in 2008.
The minister said the increased enrolment placed considerable pressure on available practical training facilities and work-integrated learning placements required for professional registration.
"Firstly, 50 students have been selected for placement in accordance with the available professional training capacity. The required documentation was submitted to the YAF Professions Council of Namibia, and these students have received their student registration certificates from the council. Secondly, a further 55 students are currently unable to proceed to practical placement because of capacity constraints."
She further stated that Nust is exploring opportunities with universities within the Southern African Development Community region that offer comparable medical laboratory sciences qualifications.
Several MPs raised concerns regarding the matter.
IPC MP Michael Mwashindange questioned, "Who is going to be responsible for refunding this money that these parents have incurred for the past two years?"
Meanwhile, fellow IPC MP Elvis Lizazi asked, ""Why did the management of NUST allow for such a situation to occur and take all this time until when the nursing council came in?"
PDM MP Inna Hengari sought clarity: "Are we going now to restart the application process and apply on behalf of the students to other universities in the region?" Are we going to pay for their transport fees, their air tickets, to travel to whichever country will accept them?"
LPM MP Utaara Mootu in her contribution also questioned, "Will there be any financial assistance for them moving forward in their new contracts with other universities that will come and play as a solution?"
The minister in her response states that costs and other arrangements are still being assessed, with NSFAF identified as a key stakeholder.
Dr Steenkamp added that the affected students are also being consulted on the proposed pathways and institutions.