EDUCATION TIES: Unam Professor Veikko Uahengo, environment minister Pohamba Shifeta, EIF’s Karl Mutani Aribeb and Unam Professor Selma Lendelvo during Monday’s launch. PHOTO: EIF/UNAM
EDUCATION TIES: Unam Professor Veikko Uahengo, environment minister Pohamba Shifeta, EIF’s Karl Mutani Aribeb and Unam Professor Selma Lendelvo during Monday’s launch. PHOTO: EIF/UNAM

Unam, EIF collaborate on climate education initiative

Namibia embraces climate change education
The tailor-made short courses are in response to the urgent need for climate change education.
STAFF REPORTER
The University of Namibia (Unam) and the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF) introduced a series of short courses on Monday designed to equip Namibians with crucial knowledge and skills, a move aimed at addressing climate change.

The event underscored the urgent need for climate change education, the two partners said in a media statement.

“The partnership between EIF and Unam exemplifies a proactive approach to climate change education, aiming to build a knowledgeable and responsive community capable of tackling environmental challenges. By offering these short courses, Unam and EIF aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, which are essential for hands-on experience through field visits and case studies,” the statement reads.

Environment minister Pohamba Shifeta, in his keynote address, praised EIF and Unam for pioneering this initiative and highlighted its importance in the current climate scenario.

“The short courses, accredited at NQA level 8, offer a flexible study option for those who cannot afford prolonged absences from work. This high academic standard also opens doors for students to enrol in the master's programme in 2025, providing a seamless academic progression for those committed to advancing their expertise in climate change,” stated Shifeta.

Vast opportunities

Shifeta said he is hopeful that the short courses will consolidate the country's expertise, fostering a collaborative approach to climate change education.

Namibia offers various opportunities for learning and growth in the field of climate change, Shifeta said.

“Let me emphasise that the opportunities for learning and growth in Namibia are vast and growing, offering us the tools to tackle climate change head-on. By embracing these opportunities and the advantages they bring and by leveraging the latest research and innovations, we can build a more resilient, sustainable and prosperous future for all Namibians,” he said.

EIF chief operations officer, Karl Mutani Aribeb, said "the impacts of climate change are undeniable and the science is clear.”

He added: “Our collaborative effort with Unam to develop these tailor-made short courses is a response to the urgent need for climate change education. This initiative empowers individuals with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to act as agents of change.”

Unam’s pro-vice chancellor for research, innovation and development, Professor Cristina Stefan, highlighted the diverse offering of the collaboration.

“The courses cover a wide range of topics such as climate science, policy and governance, sustainable development, renewable energy and climate finance,” Stefan said.

She added that the comprehensive curriculum ensures that participants gain a holistic understanding of the issues at hand.

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-22

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