Staff Reporter
THE Education Minister, Sanet Steenkamp, has acknowledged that the integration of the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) into the Ministry of Education has raised staff concerns, particularly regarding remuneration, but assured that these concerns are being taken seriously.
“I also recognise that this transition has been difficult. It has brought mixed emotions, concerns about remuneration, and anxiety. These concerns are legitimate, particularly when change affects people’s livelihoods. I want to assure you that your concerns are understood and taken seriously. Hence our commitment to you all. You will recall that Dr Mundia was appointed Deputy Executive Director on the second day of the integration of NSFAF. He immediately came to speak to all of you and established a Departmental Management Committee. This demonstrates how seriously we regard all of you,” Steenkamp said.
Photos: Ministry of Education Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture
She made these remarks during her address to NSFAF employees. She emphasised that the integration of NSFAF into the Ministry was never intended to diminish the value of staff or undermine the work NSFAF employees have carried out over the years. According to her, the aim was to strengthen governance, improve alignment with national education and skills development priorities, and enhance long‑term sustainability.
“I was briefed on the engagements that have taken place with management, union representatives, consultants, and staff, including the issuance of individual letters, explanatory memoranda, and departmental consultations. However, I also acknowledge that consultation is not only about meetings held, but about whether employees feel adequately informed and heard. As such, where information was not sufficiently detailed or where uncertainty remains, those gaps must be addressed,” Steenkamp said.
In the meantime, she called on staff to focus on stabilisation, supporting one another, aligning systems, and ensuring the continuity of operations, as the integration is now in effect.
“I must emphasise that students depend on NSFAF, and service delivery must not be compromised during this period. The Ministry is committed to providing a stable and enabling environment in which NSFAF employees can perform with confidence, morale is strengthened, and service delivery to students is enhanced,” Steenkamp added.
