The late Dr Paul Ludik’s service to Namibia with distinction through his trailblazing career and outstanding leadership, will ensure that his legacy lasts forever.

These were the words of President Hage Geingob as he honoured the late Ludik at a memorial service held in Windhoek on Thursday.

In a speech delivered on his behalf, President Geingob noted that although Dr Ludik worked in a field which is often underrated, his impact thereon cannot be understated.

Ludik, who was a prominent forensic scientist and former director of the Namibian Police Forensic Science Institute (NPFSI), died at his Windhoek home on 22 June 2022.

“Dr Ludik’s career is both admirable and highly inspirational. It is a reminder that whenever a human being is driven by passion, a high work ethic, dedication and self-belief, he or she can achieve unimaginable success. He has paved the way for others to follow suit and has raised the bar and challenged our young Namibians to follow their career ambitions, with fervent passion, diligence and commitment,” the president noted.

Head of the Namibian Police Force, Lieutenant General Sebastian Ndeitunga, in his message stated that the death of Dr Ludik sent shockwaves through the Namibian Police Force management, the rank-and-file, and the civilian component.

He noted that Ludik played a very instrumental role in the field of forensic science since he joined in 1995 as Director of the National Forensic Science Institute that later became the Namibian Police Forensic Science Institute, from which he retired in 2021.

“We have lost an inspiring cadre, a dynamic and promising leader on whom many relied upon for advice and mentoring. His energy and zest for work as a scientist in Namibia, will be missed. He will be dearly missed especially by those who worked closely with him at the Forensic Science Institute and the entire management cadres and many others who knew him and his legacy will surely live with us,” said Ndeitunga.

The late Dr Ludik will be buried during a private funeral on Friday.

He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency