China avails N$300 000 to UNAM for Research and Development

WINDHOEK, Feb. 28 – The Chinese Embassy yesterday donated N$300 000 to University of Namibia (UNAM) research and development through the vice Chancellor ‘s office at University of Namibia in Windhoek.

Vice Chancellor Lazarus Hangula expressed his gratitude, adding that the donation was an example of how UNAM and China’s deep ties of friendship had evolved towards a partnership that profits both countries.

Said Hangula, “UNAM and China have a rooted longstanding friendship as development partners. There is no doubt that education is the key for socio-economic development of nations in the 21st century. Since its establishment in 1992, the University of Namibia has grown into a comprehensive academic and research institution offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs as well as undertaking research and development”

The National Commission of Research Science and Technology (NCRST), is a viable partner with regards to uplifting the country, and according to the Vice Chancellor, renewable energy is one of the top priorities in the research agenda list in Namibia.

“UNAM is very grateful to the Chinese government through his Excellency Ambassador Zhang Yiming for facilitating and securing the donation of the sum of N$300 000 towards research activities,” he added.

He further pointed out that the donation was an addition to the upcoming generous donation in the form of the Chinese-funded Confucius building, which is expected to go a long way in assisting local researchers to meet their primary objectives as far as research outputs are concerned.

Ambassador Yiming stated that innovation is an inexhaustible source of human progress and a powerful driving force for the development of a country.

“China has been an innovative country, and has made remarkable achievement in numerous field such as high speed trains, large commercial aircraft, large aircraft carriers, Quantum computer, deep sea observation, to name a few.”

He further stressed that this technology did not only promote economic development but had the potential to change people‘s lives.

Yiming also said that Namibia science technology development has to evolve in order to serve industry revitalization, support livelihood improvements and help the country to achieve prosperity.

“As an all-weather partner of Namibia, China is willing to actively support research work of UNAM and support the establishment of a multi-functional science research and development center.”

China has been in the past donated equipment and monetary donations to University, will ever be there to lend the helping hand to the University. – Robert Maseka

mrobert@namibiadailynews.info