Namibia to Introduce Free University Education Starting in 2026

Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced on Thursday that her administration will implement free higher education at state universities and technical colleges beginning in 2026.

Nandi-Ndaitwah, who was sworn in as the country’s first female president last month, made the announcement during her State of the Nation address to Parliament.

“I am pleased to announce that from the next academic year, starting in 2026, tertiary education will be fully subsidized by the government,” she said.

Currently, Namibia offers free education in public elementary and high schools, though parents are responsible for costs related to school uniforms, stationery, books, and hostel fees. The new policy will eliminate tuition and registration fees at universities and colleges, making higher education more accessible to all students.

The move comes after years of public demand for the government to fully subsidize education across all levels in the southern African nation of approximately 3 million people.

“We have heard your cries,” Nandi-Ndaitwah remarked.

The President explained that the policy is designed to create more opportunities for the country’s youth, addressing issues of youth unemployment and poverty. Official data indicates that roughly 2.1 million Namibians are under the age of 35.

Under the new policy, Namibia’s two state-run universities will offer free education, alongside the country’s seven government vocational training centers, which will also no longer charge tuition fees.