The First of 16 Siblings to Graduate
Imagine becoming the first in your family to walk a path no one before you has walked. For Alexander Kaupenge Mungendje, who will soon obtain a Bachelor of Public Management Degree from NUST in May, the answer is simple: you build the path as you walk.
Born into a family of 16 siblings, Alexander grew up without an academic blueprint to follow. Yet today, he stands as the first graduate in his blended family, redefining what is possible within his own lineage.
A Journey Written Against the Odds
Alexander, the lastborn child in his family and a twin, grew up in Okakarara in the Otjozondjupa Region and was born in Gobabis in the Omaheke Region.
He describes his childhood as stable, shaped by the care of his parents in a disciplined yet supportive household. His formative years were rooted in strong family values, structure, and a sense of togetherness, elements that continue to influence his outlook on life today.
At the heart of his family was his father, who served as a pillar of strength. His passing at the age of 99 marked one of Alexander’s lowest moments, made even more profound by the fact that he had already lost his mother at a young age.
“I really wanted my parents to witness my graduation,” he said quietly. “That moment hurt deeply.”
Yet even in grief, he forged ahead.
There were moments when doubt seeped in, but he reminded himself that he is a trend-setter in his family, and that mindset became his anchor.
His journey was shaped by a network of support that appeared at critical moments, from words of encouragement to receiving a laptop donation.
Beyond Graduation
Alexander is not pausing at this degree. He is currently pursuing an Honours degree in Public Governance at NUST, continuing to build on the foundation he has already laid.
His focus remains on public policy, governance, and community development, with the goal of contributing to systems that improve service delivery and strengthen communities.
