The National Council for Higher Education has granted the Welwitchia Health Training Centre full university status.
Welwitchia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Marius Hedimbi said the institution has plans to expand its academic offerings and bolster its research capabilities.
According to Hedimbi, the institution previously known for its prowess in health sciences, will now also be able to broaden its academic offerings beyond the health sector.
The curriculum will encompass a wider range of disciplines. The university will also venture into the realm of postgraduate studies, offering masters and PhD degrees across various fields.
“However, it is time for us to expand our horizons and diversify our academic offerings. The change to university status will allow us to offer a wide range of courses and qualifications beyond the health science fields, and hence ensure that our students have access to comprehensive and multifaceted academic programmes,” he said.
He further explained that the university has acquired land in various towns across Namibia, with plans for the construction of state-of-the-art campuses.
The university also plans to establish a School for Agriculture and Nature Conservation.
“Plans are also at an advanced stage to acquire institutional land in Katima Mulilo. Our future expansion includes a focus on agriculture programmes, with the Welwitchia School of Agriculture and Nature Conservation at Mururani key to this expansion,” he said.
Hedimbi added that one of the university’s key initiatives involves the introduction of a faculty ranking system, with promotions for professorships becoming a cornerstone for propelling research output and community service.
“By recognising and rewarding excellence in teaching and research, we will create an environment where intellectual curiosity thrives. The promotion of our staff members to senior lecturers, associate professors, and full professors will be pivotal in this endeavor,” he explained
Hedimbi said the university is looking to enhance its global outreach through the establishment of partnerships with universities and research institutions worldwide in order to foster a cross-pollination of knowledge and cultural exchange.
