For many students, a university education is a journey towards opportunity and success.
But for students with special needs, that journey can come with barriers that go beyond the lecture hall.
In response to this, the University of Namibia Chancellor's Annual Charity Gala dinner brought together potential partners to help break down those barriers.
This year's gala, held under the theme "One University, Every Ability", raised funds to strengthen support for students with disabilities and special needs across all UNAM campuses.
The initiative aims to ensure access to assistive technologies, specialised learning resources and inclusive support needed to fully participate and thrive throughout their university journey.
A second-year visually impaired student, Sofia Albertus, urged leaders and organisations to create opportunities, internships and skills development programmes for people with disabilities.
“Your support is not simply helping us complete our studies; it is helping us prepare for life beyond the university. Your support would therefore make a meaningful difference not only in my life but also in the lives of many other students with disabilities.”
Former Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa, who delivered a speech on behalf of Unam's Chancellor Nangolo Mbumba, stated that barriers to academic success often arise from the environment.
“Some students can present serious difficulties for others. Obtaining learning materials, mobility around the campus, participating in a lecture, or completing an assignment may depend on the availability of appropriate technology, accessible facilities, and specialised support.”
More than N$1 million was raised during the second Chancellor's Annual Charity Gala Dinner.
UNAM Vice Chancellor Kenneth Matengu stressed that effective education is not simply about making learning opportunities available but ensuring that they are accessible and supported.
“Accessibility is not the same as availability. When something is available, it doesn't mean it is accessible. Right? So, accessibility may be physical. It may be that the mode is not accessible. As a university, we take accessibility very seriously by providing not only physical access through modifications to our buildings but also by ensuring that we have services that enable all individuals to enter the institution.
The initiative is a call to ensure that every student, regardless of their physical challenges or circumstances, has a fair opportunity to learn, participate and achieve their full potential.