It is a distinct honour for me to be the first Vice-Chancellor to lead the implementation of the first Strategic Plan 2021-2025 of the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) after the name and mandate changed from the Polytechnic of Namibia. As such, it is prudent to put the strategic risk-review and alignment exercise in context, so as to understand the implementation feasibility of the plan within a globally challenging period, precedent with the COVID-19 pandemic impact which in turn is coupled with economic, health and security challenges, nationally and internationally. 

I have come to learn that the NUST community - students, staff and key stakeholders alike - take immense pride in their identity, reputation and commitment and it therefore makes it immensely rewarding for me to lead the university towards growth and sustainability. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the plan is focused on people (student-centric approach) and systems to drive the university towards sustainability. The review and alignment process thus provides an opportunity for the university to realistically reflect and re-engineer its course of strategic direction towards becoming the technological university of choice to study, work and partner with. 

Digital transformation advancement will inevitably become more efficient, innovative and creative to embrace the 21st Century. The strategic intent therefore is to create a cohesive digital ecosystem through a distinctive approach to enquiry, scholarship and education which is open, intellectually rigorous and ethically grounded, with the emphasis on innovative student-centred learning and cross-disciplinary, collaborative and applied research. 

It is a pleasure for me to reaffirm that this strategic plan provides the NUST community with the roadmap and unprecedented opportunity to embrace the prospects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and beyond through an unwavering focus on innovatively advancing knowledge, thus remaining relevant, futuristic and making a lasting impact on society.