NUST alumni lend helping hand to prospective students

In an initiative to raise funds for underprivileged students, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) alumni association on Tuesday officially launched their first-ever 'Walk-Run De NUST' sports initiative held at the High-Tech Transfer Plaza Select (HTTPS).

It will source funds to assist undergraduate and postgraduate students with registration fees for the 2024 academic year and is scheduled to take place on 30 September in Windhoek.

"It is common knowledge that one of the major barriers to accessing higher education in the country is registration fees, which is the first obstacle faced by many matriculates, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, at the commencement of every academic year," said Shoki Kandjimi, president of the alumni association.



Registration process

The fundraising event was initiated and implemented by the NUST alumni association executive committee as part of their mandate to assist and support the efforts of the university in obtaining funds for development by contributing to the NUST Alumni Social Welfare Fund. The initiative is open to all, with NUST alumni members required to pay N$100 and non-members N$120 to participate.

"We have also made provision for children to take part for N$50. All proceeds from these registration fees will go to the NUST Alumni Social Welfare Fund, which will fund underprivileged students. Registration will be done through the link that will be provided on our official artwork or the NUST website. The 10 km walk or run is scheduled to begin at 05:00, while the 5 km fun walk will kick off at 05:30. The starting line for both routes will be the NUST main gate at Jackson Kaujeua Street."



The way forward

The executive committee has selected Ndawana Haitembu, a national sports athlete and NUST alumna, as their official ambassador for the sports fundraising initiative. Kandjimi said she will assist the association in promoting and marketing the event. "Her involvement in this project will significantly amplify our efforts in making a tangible difference in the lives of those students aspiring to pursue higher education at NUST but face financial constraints. We are indeed grateful to have her on board." He commended their current sponsors and urged potential sponsors and corporates to support them and contribute to the NUST Alumni Social Welfare Fund."

Kandjimi said after the event, a call for applications will be sent out to allow the target group to apply for assistance from the NUST Alumni Social Welfare Fund. They will also set up a committee to review and select the beneficiaries.

"The association will make use of this opportunity to also establish and maintain a mutually beneficial relationship between NUST and its alumni and to promote a healthy and fit lifestyle among the NUST alumni and the general public by extension."