NUST Library Renamed
The NUST community gathered at the Windhoek Lower Campus to witness a proud and historic moment—the official renaming of the Main Campus Library in honour of Prof Tjama Tjivikua, the founding Rector of the Polytechnic of Namibia and the first Vice-Chancellor of NUST. The ceremony paid tribute to his visionary leadership and the legacy he built over 25 transformative years.
Speaking at the event, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Andrew Niikondo, highlighted Prof Tjivikua’s enduring impact, noting that he remains the longest-serving head of the Institution since its establishment. “His tenure laid the academic, administrative and moral foundations on which we continue to build,” he remarked.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Prof Colin Stanley, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Partnerships, NUST Interim Council Chairperson, Dr Leake Hangala, commended Prof Tjivikua for leading with conviction at a pivotal time in Namibia’s development. He noted that establishing a new higher education institution in a young nation was both bold and demanding, yet Prof Tjivikua approached the task with discipline, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Prof Tjivikua, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture. “This is a priceless gift that I and our nation shall cherish. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the NUST Council, leadership and community for the indelible mark to be etched into this library and the University,” he shared. Surrounded by family, friends, and former colleagues, he reflected on a journey that shaped the institution from its early days into a nationally respected university of science, technology, and innovation.
Today, the renamed library stands as both a tribute and a testament to progress. It remains one of the University’s most utilised academic spaces, offering a 750-seat capacity, each workspace fitted with electrical connection points, alongside more than 66 000 printed books, 350 000 e-books, and access to over 70 000 electronic journal titles.
The dedication marks a symbolic moment in NUST’s history, honouring a leader whose influence remains woven into the institution’s academic fabric and future direction.
