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In todays latest HESLGB News: AAHEFA Endorses Namibia’s Bold Higher Education Subsidy Initiative. The Association of African Higher Education Financing Agencies (AAHEFA) has commended the Government of the Republic of Namibia for its visionary decision to subsidise tuition and registration fees at public universities and training centres starting from the 2026 academic year.
The Higher Education Loans and Grants Board (HESLGB) is a member of AAHEFA, and its Executive Director, Mr Prince Phwetekere, serves as the Vice President.
Speaking during a high-level engagement with the Free Education Task Force held at the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) Boardroom in Windhoek, AAHEFA President Dr. John Machayi hailed the reform as ‘one of the most consequential and ambitious policy undertakings in Namibia’s education history.’
Dr. Machayi applauded Her Excellency, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndairwah, for her leadership in prioritising education as a transformative force for national development.
Dr. Machayi: The reform transforms the future of higher education in Africa
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‘This pronouncement is a clear signal that Namibia views education not just as a right, but as a foundation for national transformation,’ he said. Dr. Machayi outlined five key considerations for a sustainable implementation of the reform:
Ensure Full and Predictable Funding: Institutions must receive adequate, timely, and performance-linked funding to maintain quality and expand access.
Adopt Student-Based Financing Models: Emphasising that funding should follow the student to ensure equity and choice, regardless of whether the institution is public or private.
Preserve NSFAF’s Institutional Strengths: He urged that reforms build on existing infrastructure and institutional memory rather than dismantling it.
Clarify Institutional Roles: Clearly delineating responsibilities among the Ministry of Higher Education, the Regulator (NCHE), and NSFAF to avoid fragmentation and inefficiency.
Consider Phased Implementation: A gradual rollout targeting priority groups or institutions can enhance long-term sustainability.
Dr. Machayi further underscored AAHEFA’s readiness to support Namibia’s transition through peer learning, technical advisory on financing models, and policy capacity building.
He noted that several African countries, including Ghana, Botswana, Rwanda, and South Africa, offer valuable lessons in designing inclusive and sustainable higher education financing systems.
He concluded. ‘Namibia is not just reforming a policy; it is reshaping the future for its youth. This reform will inspire confidence, catalyse innovation, and strengthen social cohesion. AAHEFA stands ready to walk this journey with you.’ The President is accompanied by his Vice, Mr Prince Phwetekere from Malawi, and the AAHEFA’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr Zephenia Maduhu from Tanzania.
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