Windhoek: The University of Namibia (UNAM) says winning the Best of Namibia Award in the Higher Education category for the first time recognises its contribution to higher education, research and community development.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Best of Namibia Awards are an annual public-voted programme recognising the country's favourite businesses, organisations, institutions and personalities across various categories. The official award ceremony took place in Windhoek on Wednesday.

UNAM Public Relations Manager Simon Namesho told Nampa on Friday the award carries particular significance because it was determined through public nominations and voting, reflecting the confidence and trust of communities the university serves across Namibia.

"For the University of Namibia, this recognition means a great deal, and being our first win in this category makes it stand out even more. Unlike academic rankings or accreditation reviews, the Best of Namibia Award is decided by the Namibian public itself through open nomination and voting," he said.

Namesho said the recognition reflects years of institutional development, including the introduction of a transformed curriculum featuring a Core Semester, an increased focus on research and innovation, expanded international partnerships, and community engagement through UNAM's 12 campuses.

He said the achievement aligns with the university's long-term strategic objectives and vision.

Namesho added that the award reinforces the university's commitment to continuous improvement as it implements its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan.

"We intend to build on it by continuing to execute our 2025 to 2030 Strategic Plan: deepening research output, strengthening global partnerships, and investing in our people and systems so that growth in student numbers is matched by growth in the quality of support we provide," he said.

He said the university dedicates the award to its students, staff and alumni, while thanking Namibians who voted for the institution and pledging to continue earning the public's trust.

UNAM was the only Namibian institution featured in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings. It is also ranked 31st in the inaugural QS World University Rankings for Sub-Saharan Africa and serves more than 30,000 students across its 12 campuses.