It’s Adriaan’s Turn to Shine!

When graduation season comes around, Adriaan Cloete is usually the go-to person on campus, ensuring staff are fitted with the correct academic regalia for the big day. But this year is different.

Instead of only helping others prepare, he will step into the spotlight himself. Adriaan will proudly don the prestigious attire he has so often helped others into, graduating this October with a Postgraduate Diploma in Management while leading NUST’s Department for Graduation and Certification.

From Examinations Officer to Head of Department

Adriaan began his journey at the then Polytechnic of Namibia (now NUST) in 2008 as an Examinations Officer. Over the years, his dedication and continuous self-improvement led to his promotion in 2022 to Head of Department.

“This journey has been transformative. It has taught me patience, perseverance, and the value of continuous learning, while deepening my appreciation for NUST’s commitment to empowering its staff,” he reflects.

He credits his success to a strong support system. “My wife has been my greatest source of encouragement and inspiration throughout this journey. She constantly motivated me, pushed me to stay focused, and reminded me of the bigger picture – even when things became overwhelming. I am deeply grateful for her belief in my potential,” he says. He also acknowledges colleagues and mentors at NUST who provided guidance and support, shaping his professional path.

Academic Journey

Before enrolling for the Postgraduate Diploma in Management at NUST, Adriaan completed an undergraduate degree with STADIO Namibia. “These qualifications laid a strong foundation for my personal and professional development and prepared me for the leadership responsibilities I hold today,” he explains.

NUST’s staff development initiatives and financial support programmes also played a vital role, enabling him to pursue further studies while taking on greater responsibilities. This support allowed him to grow professionally while developing the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the institution.

Balancing work, studies, and family life was not without its challenges. “Time management was the biggest hurdle. Juggling deadlines and family obligations often felt overwhelming. But learning to prioritise and make time for self-care taught me resilience and discipline,” he shares.

Russel Camm, Senior Organisational Development and Learning Business Partner at NUST, describes the significance of staff development journeys such as Adriaan’s: “When colleagues like Adriaan pursue further qualifications, it is not just about earning a certificate or a title, it is about stepping boldly into the future with sharper skills, renewed confidence, and the ability to shape the next chapter of our institution’s story. His growth is not only personal but also a collective victory, as it strengthens the very fabric of NUST and inspires others to reach higher. In short: when one of us grows, all of us rise”.

Graduating with Purpose

This October marks a milestone in Adriaan’s personal and professional journey. “It reflects my commitment to continuous growth and equips me with the tools to navigate my responsibilities as a manager with greater confidence and effectiveness,” he explains.

Looking ahead, his academic journey does not stop here. “I am planning to pursue my Master’s Degree in Leadership and Change Management next year,” he reveals. Professionally, Adriaan is eager to apply his new knowledge within NUST. “I intend to use my new qualification to further strengthen my ability to serve as a transformational leader, guiding my team with empathy, accountability, and a focus on excellence. My goal is to inspire others to embrace lifelong learning and continuous growth, both within the institution and in the wider community.”