Bridging the gap to tertiary education

Student-led initiative University Affairs (UA) has committed to ensuring that Namibian high school pupils make the transition to tertiary education with clarity, confidence and accurate information.

By bridging the gap between high school and university life, UA empowers pupils through relatable storytelling, student-verified resources and peer-to-peer mentorship.

At a time when many young people struggle to navigate university applications, funding options and career pathways, UA offers practical guidance from students who have successfully walked the same journey.

The initiative is co-led by two young Namibian students.

They are Laina Kalumbu, a second-year computer science and engineering student at the University of Cape Town and an Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Candidate Fellow, and Ndawedwa Muandingi, a second-year dental surgery student at the University of Namibia and current Mr Stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) Namibia 2025.

Since its launch last July, the organisation has recorded significant growth and impact, Muandingi says.

“As of December 2025, the initiative has reached more than 1 024 students nationwide,’’ he says.
He believes their success lies in being practical and action-driven.

Through relatable storytelling, the initiative hosts Instagram takeovers in partnership with platforms such as AS Level Namibia and Student Diary Hub, showcasing authentic student experiences from various institutions, Muandingi says.

These stories help pupils better understand university life and academic expectations.

Kalumbu says: “UA offers digital peer support through moderated WhatsApp communities, which now include more than 1 100 pupils.’’

These platforms provide application tips, deadline reminders and peer motivation, she says.

Tailored mentorship is another key pillar of the initiative.

Pupils who reach out to UA’s moderators receive one-on-one assistance, with resources and guidance tailored to their academic interests and career goals, she says.

Kalumbu says the initiative prioritises accessible information by sharing clear, student-friendly content.

Muandingi says the organisation was founded with the specific goal of helping pupils have a smoother transition to tertiary education.

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