Tertiary education will be free from next year.
This was announced by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in her maiden State of the Nation Address on Thursday.
Some nine years ago, student movements agitated for free education at public universities and technical and vocational education centres.
In her State of the Nation Address, Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that the Namibian government is already providing free primary and secondary education in public schools.
"I am pleased to announce that from the next academic year, commencing 2026, tertiary education will become 100% subsidised by the government. That means no registration fees and no tuition fees at all public universities and technical & vocational education centres. While this will be a gradual, phased-in approach, your contribution as families and students for now will be towards accommodation and other related costs. We have heard your cries: "The fees have fallen."
In this regard, President Ndaitwah had a specific message for the youth.
"That is the golden opportunity accorded to you by your caring government in an independent Namibia. You must use this opportunity to bring out your talents to contribute meaningfully to the development of your country and support your parents. The 8th Administration will therefore count on your individual and collective support and contributions towards our collective agenda of nation-building and development."
Staying with matters of education, the president also announced changes with regard to the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund.
"To derive cost savings and to maximise value to student beneficiaries, the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) will be reintegrated back into the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture by October 2025."
The president also announced the allocation of N$50 million towards the hosting of the 2025 National Arts and Creative Industry Awards, stating that the creative industry has been elevated as a sector of national strategic priority.