By: Stephanus Pombili
Welwitchia University continues to expand its footprint across Namibia, reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality, and market-driven higher education. One of its most significant milestones has been the establishment of the Welwitchia University Outapi Campus, strategically located in Outapi, the capital city of the Omusati Region.
As one of the first institutions of higher learning to establish a campus in Outapi, Welwitchia University has made history by bringing university education closer to communities in northern Namibia.
The development has been warmly welcomed by residents, political leaders, traditional authorities, and the wider public, all of whom recognise the transformative role higher education plays in socio-economic development.
The Governor of Omusati Region has expressed his appreciation for the presence of the institution in the region, noting that the establishment of the campus represents an important investment in the future of the youth and the development of local communities.
Since its inception, the Outapi Campus has enjoyed broad acceptance and support from the community. Currently, the campus offers the Certificate in Enrolled Nursing and Midwifery (NQF Level 6) and the Certificate in Health Science Foundation (NQF Level 4), programmes designed to address the growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.
Welwitchia University itself has undergone a remarkable transformation. Having evolved from a health training centre into a fully-fledged university in 2024, the institution has expanded its academic portfolio considerably, introducing numerous accredited programmes across various disciplines.
As the University continues to grow, residents of Outapi and surrounding areas can look forward to studying a wide range of programmes closer to their homes. Future offerings are expected to include qualifications in Education, Law, Business Management, Pharmacy, and many other fields that respond directly to the needs of the labour market.
Among the flagship faculties is the School of Education, which has developed programmes based on labour market demands and national needs assessments, thereby addressing the challenge of graduate unemployment caused by subject mismatches.
The University offers the Bachelor of Education in Senior Primary Education (Honours) Grade 4–7 (NQF Level 8). Students may specialise in:
- Languages: English, Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Afrikaans, Otjiherero, and Khoekhoegowab (KKG);
- Sciences: Mathematics and Natural Science & Health Education; and
- Social Sciences: Environmental Studies and Social Studies.
Admission requirements include:
- A minimum of 25 points in six subjects;
- A minimum of a D symbol in English at NSSCO/NSSCAS level; and
- A minimum of a D symbol in the chosen specialization subjects.
In addition, the University offers the Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education (Honours) Grade 8–12 (NQF Level 8), with specialisation options in:
- Languages: English, Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Afrikaans, and Khoekhoegowab (KKG);
- Commerce: Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, and Entrepreneurship;
- Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Agriculture; and
- Social Sciences: History, Geography, Development Studies, and Life Skills.
Applicants are required to have:
- A minimum of 27 points in six subjects;
- A minimum of a D symbol in English at NSSCO/NSSCAS level; and
- A minimum of a C symbol in the subjects of specialization.
The expansion of programmes at the Outapi Campus demonstrates Welwitchia University’s unwavering commitment to making higher education more accessible, affordable, and relevant to the needs of society.
Students from Omusati and neighbouring regions will increasingly be able to pursue their academic aspirations without having to relocate far from home.
With its student-centred approach, industry-relevant programmes, and vision of academic excellence, Welwitchia University is shaping the future of higher education in Namibia and empowering communities through knowledge and innovation.
Study with ease. Study closer to home. Study with Welwitchia University.
