Non-tuition household threshold income raised by N$200 000 to expand access to education

The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture has increased the non-tuition household income threshold from N$100 000 to N$300 000 to broaden access to subsidised tertiary education.

Announcing the increment during a press conference in Windhoek on Friday, education minister Sanet Steenkamp said the move will allow access to education for more students, including those from low and middle-income families.

The non-tuition income threshold was previously N$100 000, and the N$200 000 increase is effective this academic year.

“This reinforces the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equity,” Steenkamp said.

She noted that the intervention forms part of reforms aimed at ensuring financial access to capable students who want to pursue higher education.

Steenkamp confirmed that funding for the current academic year has already been secured and eligible students will have their registration and tuition fees for primary qualifications covered.

“Subsidised tertiary education will continue as planned and is being implemented through a phased approach, recognising the complexity of the education ecosystem and the need to ensure stability, quality, and fairness,” Steenkamp added.

While progress has been made, Steenkamp noted that the implementation of subsidised tertiary education remains a national project that requires cooperation, understanding, and shared responsibility.

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