By: Stephanus Pombili
In the evolving landscape of higher education in Namibia, the contributions of private
institutions have become increasingly significant. Among them, the International University of Management (IUM) stands out as a pioneering force in shaping visionary leaders, thinkers, innovators, and nation-builders.
One such leader is Willem Amutenya, a Member of Parliament who proudly reflects on his journey as an IUM alumnus. His academic experience at IUM not only strengthened his intellectual foundations, but also broadened his leadership perspective and deepened his commitment to national development.
Amutenya’s decision to pursue his Master’s Degree in Education: Education, Management, Leadership and Policy at IUM was driven by a desire to diversify his academic exposure and expand his intellectual horizons. Having completed his Honour’s degree at the University of Namibia (UNAM), he saw IUM as a strategic choice to complement his academic background with a different higher education experience.
“Pursuing my Master’s Degree at IUM was a valuable opportunity to diversify my academic experience after completing my Honour’s degree at the University of Namibia. I chose IUM because it represents one of Namibia’s most successful and reputable private universities; an institution built on a strong foundation of local innovation, academic excellence, and commitment to developing capacity within our own Namibian communities,” said Amutenya.
IUM’s unique identity as a home-grown institution – visionary in character and grounded in national relevance – resonates strongly with students who aspire not only to excel academically, but to serve and uplift their communities. For Amutenya, choosing IUM symbolised confidence in Namibia’s capacity to produce world-class graduates through home-developed initiatives and talent.
In reflecting on his academic journey, he emphasises that IUM offers a learning environment where innovation, relevance, and intellectual rigor intersect. The quality of education, he notes, is both context-aware and globally aligned, positioning graduates to thrive in Namibia and beyond.
“The university offers a unique learning experience grounded in local understanding and context-based research, ensuring that students gain knowledge relevant to Namibia’s socio-economic realities while maintaining global standards. The lecturers at IUM are highly dedicated, fostering a culture of excellence and intellectual growth that inspires students to think critically, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he noted.
At IUM, students are not simply recipients of knowledge, they are challenged to question, analyse, and engage in issues that matter to national and regional development. This capacity-building approach is reflected in the institution’s culture of nurturing academic independence, entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and ethical leadership.
Amutenya credits IUM’s academic environment for sharpening his analytical abilities, strengthening his research skills, and shaping his leadership perspective in ways that are firmly aligned with Namibia’s socio-economic aspirations. His encouragement to prospective students is both sincere and
compelling. For anyone seeking an institution that blends intellectual depth with practical relevance, he strongly advocates for IUM as a destination of choice.
“To anyone considering further studies, I wholeheartedly encourage you to choose IUM. It is a decision you will never regret, especially if you value innovation, intellectual growth, and education that is both locally rooted and globally relevant,” he remarked.
His endorsement reflects his personal conviction that IUM continues to play a transformative role in shaping Namibia’s next generation of leaders. From classrooms to leadership spaces, including Parliament, the institution’s influence continues to grow through the impact of its graduates.
Amutenya’s story is not just one of academic success, it is a testament to IUM’s legacy in nation-building. His journey reinforces the importance of believing in local institutions, investing in domestic intellectual infrastructure, and embracing educational experiences that empower graduates to effect real change.
As Namibia continues its journey towards inclusive socio-economic development, stories
like these serve as a reminder that leadership starts in the classroom, but its true power lies in service to the nation.
IUM, producing leaders who transform Namibia from within.
