NUST Celebrates Dr. Sanet Steenkamp’s Academic Achievement with Public Lecture

NUST Celebrates Dr. Sanet Steenkamp’s Academic Achievement with Public Lecture. The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) hosted a Public Lecture on 19 February 2026 to honor Hon. Dr. Sanet Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, for attaining her PhD in Education from Rhodes University. Her doctoral research explored teacher leadership and inclusive education, marking a significant milestone in her career.

In his welcoming remarks, Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Andrew Niikondo reflected on Dr. Steenkamp’s journey from classroom teacher to her current ministerial role. He commended her ability to balance national leadership responsibilities, family life, and a demanding seven-year doctoral pursuit that began in 2018. He described her achievement as proof that ambition and responsibility can coexist.

A congratulatory message from the University of Namibia, delivered by Prof. Ferdinand Gideon on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kenneth Matengu, confirmed that Dr. Steenkamp officially obtained her doctorate on 10 October 2025. The message emphasized that a PhD represents the creation of original knowledge and praised her for achieving this while serving in senior leadership.

Representing the Ministry, Ms. Edda Bohn, Deputy Executive Director: Formal Education, expressed pride in the Minister’s accomplishment, calling it the beginning of an exciting new chapter for advancing education in Namibia.

In her keynote address, Dr. Steenkamp candidly shared her academic journey, noting that her preparation began in 2013 with a pre-doctoral program. She encouraged aspiring scholars to embrace the challenges of doctoral study, develop resilience, and contribute research that ensures inclusive education for all.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Hon. Ghislain Thierry Maguessa Ebomé of Congo-Brazzaville, Hon. Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of MEIYSAC, and members of the education fraternity. The evening concluded with tokens of appreciation from both NUST and UNAM, celebrating resilience, lifelong learning, and servant leadership.