Staff Reporter
Windhoek, October 27, 2023 – The International University of Management (IUM) marked a momentous occasion with its 2023 Summer Convocation. A total of 832 students proudly graduated across various fields, achieving a well-deserved milestone in their educational journey. This ceremony follows the Winter Convocation in May, where IUM celebrated the graduation of 1972 students, bringing the total number of graduates for 2023 to an impressive 2804.
Bishop Emeritus Dr. Shekutaamba Vaini-Vaino Nambala, the IUM Chancellor, warmly congratulated the graduates during his speech, recognizing the collective joy and happiness of parents, guardians, university staff, and education stakeholders. This moment, he noted, was a testament to their dedication and success.
The convocation was officiated by Hon. Prof. David Namwandi, the Founder and Council Chair of IUM. While commending the achievements of the graduates, Prof. Namwandi also expressed his concern about the prevalent issue of high youth unemployment in Namibia.
He stressed the need for concerted efforts in the fight against unemployment and discouraged the blame game. In response to this challenge, he announced the establishment of the “David Namwandi Trust Fund,” aimed at providing seed capital to graduates from accredited tertiary institutions. This financial support is intended to help graduates launch their own businesses based on bankable business plans, thus fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
Ms. Loide Nghuulondo, the incoming Student Representative Council (SRC) president for the year 2023/2024, delivered an inspiring message to the graduates. She encouraged them to uphold the vision and mission of the university, emphasizing that they were not trained to be job seekers but rather job and wealth creators.
Nghuulondo highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit instilled by IUM’s founder, stressing the graduates’ role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and making a positive impact in their communities. She urged the graduates to carry this entrepreneurial spirit with them as they enter the professional world, creating opportunities not only for themselves but also for others locally and internationally.
The 2023 Summer Graduation Convocation centered around the theme “Celebrating humble beginnings, assuring total commitment to quality.” It was a celebration of achievements and a reminder of the shared commitment to excellence and quality in education.
IUM extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates and expressed its best wishes for a prosperous and impactful future. The convocation serves as a testament to the university’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
