NANSO launches ‘Access to Education’ campaign

The Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO) has launched the ‘Access to Education’ campaign, aimed at helping students overcome barriers to enrolling in higher education institutions. This initiative follows the recent ‘Fix My School’ campaign, which focused on improving access to basic education.

NANSO’s President, Dorthea Nangolo, explained that the campaign is designed to assist students facing financial and administrative challenges, particularly those struggling to afford high registration fees or clear outstanding debts. The initiative includes support for hostel applications, Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) applications, and general administrative guidance, especially for first-time students unfamiliar with the process.

A key component of the campaign is advocacy for the reduction or restructuring of registration fees, which often prevent many students from enrolling. NANSO is actively engaging with higher education institutions, student representative councils (SRCs), and the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to explore solutions such as flexible payment plans and tuition fee regulation. According to Nangolo, the NCHE has a statutory mandate to oversee tuition regulation and ensure a cohesive and accessible higher education system.

The campaign is being rolled out nationwide through NANSO’s regional structures, ensuring that students across all 14 regions receive the necessary support. Nangolo highlighted that last year’s efforts saw 30,000 students receive direct assistance, with NANSO maintaining records to track their academic progress throughout the year. The same approach will be applied this year to ensure continued support.

In addition to institutional engagement, NANSO is also working with the Ministry of Higher Education, NSFAF, and other stakeholders to explore sustainable funding solutions. One of the proposals under consideration is the introduction of an education levy to increase financial resources for students in need.

NANSO remains committed to advocating for equitable access to education and ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent students from pursuing higher learning opportunities.