NUSTodian at the Helm of Championing Namibia’s Space Bill
When Namibia charts its course into the space age, it will do so with the expertise of a dedicated NUSTodian at the table. Dr Smita Francis, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of NUST’s Namibia Institute of Space Technology (NIST), has been appointed to serve on the National Steering Committee tasked with developing the Space Science and Technology Bill.
Her appointment places NUST at the forefront of shaping Namibia’s legislative and technological future in the space sector. Serving on a pro-bono basis, Dr Francis contributes directly to crafting a policy framework that will guide the country’s ambitions in satellite technology, data science, and space governance. “NUST, through NIST, is uniquely positioned to influence national policy by operating at the intersection of technical capability, human capital development, and direct policy engagement,” she explains.
Through her role, NUST transitions from being a participant to a co-architect of national policy. The University’s growing capabilities, most notably its nanosatellite data receiving ground station, provide practical insight that ensures the Space Bill is grounded in real-world applications. “This allows us to provide policymakers with evidence-based inputs, ensuring the legislation is not purely theoretical, but operationally relevant,” Dr Francis adds.
Beyond policy, the impact is set to ripple across classrooms and laboratories. The Space Bill is expected to unlock opportunities for students and researchers, including hands-on involvement in satellite design, data analytics, and engineering innovation.
