Education is not a privilege, it is a right. On the morning of 5 February 2025, at RIK Technical College in Windhoek, this principle echoed as the Namibian National Students Organisation (NANSO) launched its Access to Higher & TVET Educational Campaign in the Khomas Region. In a hall filled with passionate students, dedicated leaders, and hopeful young minds, NANSO embarked on a new chapter in the fight for accessible and sustainable education, driven by unity, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of justice.
For decades, education in Namibia has faced significant challenges, from financial constraints to overcrowded classrooms and exclusionary policies. However, history has shown that when students stand together, change is inevitable. Since its inception, NANSO has been at the forefront of advocating for students’ rights, leading initiatives such as the Access to Basic Education Campaign to improve school infrastructure, push for policy reforms, and remove financial barriers. Now, in 2025, the movement is expanding with two key campaigns: Access to Higher & TVET Education and Fix My School. The former seeks to improve access to tertiary education and funding, while the latter partners with TVET institutions to renovate dilapidated schools, repair furniture, and create an inspiring learning environment.
“We want to bring students and communities together to restore and improve schools,” said Rauna Shiparanga, ICT Officer for NANSO’s Khomas Regional Executive Committee, highlighting the impact of collaboration.
Addressing the crowd, NANSO President Dorthea Nangolo reflected on past victories and reaffirmed the need for continued advocacy. From securing reforms in student funding policies to ensuring graduates receive their qualifications despite outstanding debts, NANSO has proven that collective action delivers results. However, challenges persist, with tuition fees, hostel costs, and registration expenses remaining prohibitively high.
Nangolo raised a critical question: “What if, one day, education is no longer the most funded sector? What happens to the students then?” This concern fuels NANSO’s next fight – pushing for an educational levy to ensure long-term, equitable access to education for all.
As the campaign officially launched, a renewed sense of determination filled the room. With over 600 NANSO leaders across the country committed to the cause, the message was clear – change requires collective effort. “NANSO is a school of leadership,” Nangolo reminded attendees. “Get involved, raise your voice, and be part of the movement.”
Education is the foundation of a nation’s progress. It breaks cycles of poverty, unlocks potential, and builds a future where all Namibians can thrive. The energy at RIK Technical College was a testament to this vision, reaffirming that the fight for education is far from over.
In Nangolo’s own words, “We reaffirm and reassure you, this fight is far from over.”
