Windhoek: The Student Union of Namibia (SUN) has demanded the immediate suspension and repeal of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) entry and funding requirements, labeling them as exclusionary and detrimental to educational access.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the SUN's Board Chairperson, Benhard Kavau, voiced these concerns at a press conference in Windhoek. He criticized the existing requirements as a 'weaponised bureaucracy' that unfairly prevents students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, from accessing tertiary education and state funding.

Kavau emphasized that the union seeks the unconditional suspension and repeal of these requirements, urging for their complete removal. He argued that the current criteria discriminate against poor and rural learners and contradict existing educational frameworks.

The chairperson further condemned the rejection of NSSCO certificate holders for state funding, describing it as irrational and procedurally unfair. He claimed this practice amounts to unlawful exclusion and legal bias.

Kavau asserted that the requirements breach constitutional provisions that guarantee the right to education and principles of administrative justice, specifically violating Article 20 of the Namibian Constitution.

The union also advocated for the reinstatement of the previous Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) framework, which they believe facilitated greater access to higher education. Kavau noted that the previous requirements had opened doors for many Namibian youths.

He warned that if the requirements are not suspended and repealed, the union would organize peaceful national demonstrations and consider legal action as a last resort.

Efforts by Nampa to obtain a response from NCHE at the time of publication were unsuccessful.