In a substantial step forward for medical education and research, the Namibia Institute of Pathology Limited (NIP) and the University of Namibia (UNAM) signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), strengthening medical education, specialised training and innovative research in pathology across Namibia.
The MoU, officially endorsed by NIP Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Kapena Tjombonde, and UNAM Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Kenneth Matengu, lays out a framework for deepening cooperation between these two prominent national institutions. This partnership continues a history of successful joint initiatives, including the pivotal 2013 agreement for academic instruction and clinical supervision for UNAM medical students by NIP professionals, and the impactful 2020 collaboration in COVID-19 testing services that demonstrated UNAM’s technical and scientific proficiency.
Under this renewed agreement, the institutions will establish specialised training in pathology through a Master of Medicine (MMED) programme, alongside providing enhanced specialisation avenues for medical technologists and scientists. Further collaborative activities include joint curriculum development, practical internships for medical students, cutting-edge joint research projects, technology enhancement initiatives, and strategic secondment of experts between both entities. Highlighting the significance of this initiative,
Prof. Dr. Matengu remarked, “This collaboration not only elevates UNAM’s medical training capabilities but also paves the way for a postgraduate Pathology specialisation, designed to cultivate local expertise. We are determined to equip Namibian healthcare professionals with the skills needed to advance diagnostic and research capacities, directly benefiting public health outcomes nationwide.” Echoing these sentiments, Tjombonde emphasised the urgency and impact of the partnership: “Today’s agreement symbolises our firm commitment to building local capacity in pathology, a critical yet currently under-resourced field. This collaboration positions Namibia to sustainably develop and retain essential medical expertise, enabling advanced diagnostics and transformative healthcare for our nation.” The MoU, effective for five years, represents a shared vision for innovation, excellence and sustainable health solutions, poised to reshape Namibia’s healthcare landscape for the better.