WELWITCHIA UNIVERSITY CHAMPIONS STUDENT INNOVATION AND LOCAL CRAFTSMANSHIP AT THE NATIONAL STUDENTS’ RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM 2026
Welwitchia University is proud to be a partner of the National Students’ Research Symposium 2026, hosted by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture from 14 to 16 October 2026 at the Windhoek Country Club.
Held under the theme “Harnessing AI to Catalyse Transformative Research: Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators,” the symposium brings together students, researchers, academics, policymakers and industry stakeholders to explore the role of artificial intelligence in advancing research, innovation and Namibia’s future development.
As part of its corporate social investment initiatives, Welwitchia University has sponsored 100 student conference bags, valued at N$25 000.00, for delegates attending the symposium. The bags were proudly produced by Fashion Design students from the College of the Arts, demonstrating the creativity, technical skill and entrepreneurial potential of young Namibians. Through this contribution, Welwitchia University is supporting student development while promoting local products, services and craftsmanship under the Buy Local, Grow Namibia campaign. The sponsorship reflects the University’s belief that meaningful investment in education, creativity and locally made products contributes directly to national development, youth empowerment and the growth of Namibia’s creative economy.
Welwitchia University’s participation in the symposium extends beyond sponsorship. The University will also contribute to the High-Level Panel Discussion on: “Harnessing AI for Responsible and Transformative Research: Opportunities, Risks and the Future of Namibia’s Innovation System.” Prof. Sifiso Nyathi, Pro Vice Chancellor: Academic and Research, will represent Welwitchia University on the panel, sharing the University’s perspective on the relevance of the critical theory as it relates to usage of AI in transformative research and innovation.
Welwitchia University remains committed to creating opportunities for students and staff to engage in research, innovation and knowledge exchange. Participation in the National Students’ Research Symposium provides a valuable platform to collaborate with national stakeholders, showcase institutional expertise and contribute to conversations that will influence the future of research and innovation in Namibia.
Through partnerships, sponsorships and academic engagement, Welwitchia University continues to position itself as an active contributor to Namibia’s knowledge economy, empowering the next generation of innovators, researchers and creative entrepreneurs.