Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has announced that starting in 2026, her government will provide free higher education at public universities and vocational colleges.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was sworn in as Namibia's first female leader last month, made this announcement during her National Address in Parliament.
"I am pleased to declare that from the next academic year, beginning in 2026, higher education will be fully funded by the government," she stated.
Namibia already offers free education in public primary and secondary schools, although parents are still required to pay for uniforms, writing materials, books, and hostel fees. This new policy will eliminate tuition and registration fees at colleges and universities, addressing long-standing calls for government subsidies across all levels of education in the southern African nation with a population of approximately 3 million.
"We have heard your cries," Nandi-Ndaitwah remarked, emphasizing that the policy aims to enhance opportunities for youth amid challenges of youth unemployment and poverty.
According to official statistics, about 2.1 million Namibians are under the age of 35. Two of Namibia's seven universities are government-run and will offer free education under this policy. All seven of its vocational training centers are also government-operated and will not charge tuition fees.