NASA Calls for Urgent Government Action Over Stranded Namibian Health Students in Zambia
By TUW
The National African Students’ Association (NASA) has appealed for immediate intervention from the Namibian government following prolonged delays in scholarship payments affecting health sciences students studying in Zambia.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, NASA expressed serious concern over the financial hardship facing government-sponsored Namibian students abroad.
“These continued delays have placed our students in extremely vulnerable situations, financially, academically and psychologically,” said Mr Abel Miguel, National Secretary for Academics, Sports, Arts and Culture.
“Many are struggling to secure accommodation, access meals and meet tuition-related obligations. This is compromising both their academic performance and their dignity.”
The issue was raised in Parliament by Shitana Fredrick Twiindileni, a Member of Parliament representing the Affirmative Repositioning (AR), who directed a question to the Minister of Health regarding the welfare of Namibian students studying in Zambia.
Twiindileni sought clarification following reports that more than 30 Namibian students enrolled at universities in Zambia have been unable to attend classes due to delayed tuition and allowance payments. It was stated that the affected students have been out of school for more than three weeks as a result of the outstanding payments.
In response, the Minister of Health confirmed that the matter is known to the ministry. She acknowledged the delays and assured Parliament that the issue is currently being addressed. The Minister added that efforts are underway to resolve the situation to ensure the students can resume their studies without further disruption.
The association warned that the uncertainty surrounding the release of funds is disrupting studies and placing unnecessary pressure on students who are pursuing qualifications critical to Namibia’s healthcare sector.
“Health students represent the future backbone of Namibia’s healthcare system,” Miguel stated. “Delays of this magnitude risk demoralizing future medical professionals and undermining the country’s long-term health workforce planning.”
NASA has called on the Ministry of Health and Social Services to urgently address the matter. The association is demanding the immediate release of all outstanding scholarship funds, clear communication with affected students regarding timelines, and the implementation of a sustainable mechanism to prevent similar delays in future.
“We urge the Honourable Minister to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves,” Miguel said. “The welfare of our students must remain a national priority.”
NASA further reaffirmed its solidarity with all affected students, emphasizing the need for swift, transparent and decisive action from the responsible authorities.
