The Namibia Students’ Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) disbursed N$3.1 billion to support 30,138 students during the 2025 academic year, reflecting continued demand for government-backed student funding.
According to NSFAF Acting Chief Executive Officer Kennedy Kandume, the Fund received a total of 41,322 applications in 2025, highlighting the scale of financial need among students enrolled at universities, vocational institutions and training centres across the country.
The funding covered both tuition and non-tuition costs under government’s expanded, needs-based student support framework.
The figures were released on Monday during the official launch of the 2026 NSFAF online application system.
“The data from the past year underscores the immense need we serve. For the 2025 academic year, NSFAF received a total of 41,322 applications. From these, we successfully awarded 30,138 deserving Namibian students with financial assistance amounting to N$3.1 billion, covering both tuition and non-tuition fees,” Kandume said.
He added that NSFAF expects a record number of applications for the 2026 academic year following the introduction of the 100% education subsidy.
Kandume said the Fund is fully prepared to manage the anticipated increase, noting that under the new framework NSFAF has been tasked with the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the funding model.
He said the Fund, in consultation with stakeholders, will ensure strict compliance with eligibility criteria, provide non-tuition support through means-tested loans, and maintain records to safeguard accountability and inform future policymaking.
Kandume also emphasised NSFAF’s role in developing the National List of Priority Fields of Study, ensuring that national investment aligns with Namibia’s developmental goals.
“Therefore, the 2026 application system we launch today (Monday) is the vital gateway through which students will access this transformative support. It represents our commitment to efficiency, transparency and user-friendly service. We stand ready, as a Fund, to execute these duties with diligence, integrity and a deep sense of purpose,” he said.
