The NUST Cricket Society recently hosted a Fun Festival at the FNB Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek, giving members their first hands-on experience with the sport. The event was part of a larger effort to grow cricket at a grassroots level.

According to Michelle Shapange, the event was attended by members and featured commentary from key society members.

Luciano Isaaks, the chairperson of the NUST Cricket Society, emphasized the importance of bringing cricket to the university, giving students a chance to participate. "With this event, we are looking to slowly integrate cricket at NUST, giving students a platform to participate and also testing if there is interest in the sport. From the response so far, it's clear that there's a lot of excitement," he said.

Isaaks also stated that the festival was designed to be a safe and fun space for students to bond and promote an active lifestyle. He added, "I have to say also, cricket has been doing a good job so far overall in the country, so we are inspired... It is missing at NUST. Let's bring it. Let's not just make it for professionals, but let's try and incorporate something for everybody to try and learn it, to feel a part of it, you know." He believes that offering cricket at universities creates a positive image and provides another reason for students to join.

Members of the new society also shared their thoughts on the sport's importance and its growth.

Wetuthiapi Tjilumbu said, "My interest in cricket started in primary school, but this initiative is important because it shows we can continue playing at university and not just in high school."

For Ndinelao Benestus, the festival was her first time playing cricket. "I wanted to join because Namibia is strong in cricket, and maybe I could become one of the best one day," she explained.

Sebulon Witbooi, also a newcomer to the sport, shared, "It's my first time as well, but I see cricket in Namibia is elevating, so I want to grab this opportunity and use it to the best of my ability."

The Fun Festival is a prime example of how the NUST Cricket Society is introducing the sport to new audiences and strengthening its presence in Namibia. With growing enthusiasm from students, cricket is establishing a new home on campus.