Frequent Asked Questions
What does University of Namibia Foundation do and what is its relationship with the University of Namibia?
The Foundation is an independent charitable Trust designated by the University to solicit, receive, manage, invest, and disburse private gifts to the University. Fundraising activities are managed by both the Foundation and University.
These objectives and fundraising efforts are intricately linked to the National Development Plan, the Harambee Prosperity Plan, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Who governs the Foundation?
The Foundation Board of Trustees is comprised of up to seven (7) members, with six (6) required to be independent and one (1) an ex officio appointment by the University thus assuring a formal channel of communication between Foundation and the University. The Board is appointed by the University Council and reports to the same body. It maintains an oversight role over the overall management and administration of the Foundation as detailed in the Foundation’s deed of trust. Trustees with diverse backgrounds, experience, and organisational and financial skills invest time and effort to help the Foundation grow and prosper.
The full Board meets four times a year, while three (3) board committees convene between the board sessions.
Why does the University of Namibia, which is a public university, need private support?
The University of Namibia is the largest and oldest institution of higher learning within Namibia and does receive governments subsidies. While government support remains critically important, it continues to decline year on year, making private contributions from alumni and friends increasingly important if it is to continue to fulfill its mission of excellence in education, research, and service.
What are the Foundation's fundraising priorities and who sets them?
As the Foundation was established to facilitate the University’s mission, the Foundation’s major initiatives are set by the University’s executive management with the concurrence of the Foundation’s board of directors and management.
The Foundation’s fundraising priorities are different from those of individual faculties and campuses, although they do aim to complement and not duplicate.
However, some fundraising projects evolve from the ideas of external stakeholders, in which case the Foundation works with donors who demonstrate an interest in supporting any part of the University.
How is the Foundation funded?
Currently, the Foundation’s operating revenue comes from a grant from the University of Namibia, a development/gift fee assessed on all restricted cash donations, as well as unrestricted gifts to the Foundation.
The development or gift fees provide essential support necessary for the Foundation’s overall operations. We strive to utilise a prudent fee structure to fund the cost of its operations in providing support to the University. The fee structure and rates are reviewed annually by the Board’s Investment Committee and approved by the Foundation Board.
How is my gift spent?
When you make a gift to the University through the Foundation, you determine the purpose and specific area of the University that will benefit from your generosity.
Upon receipt of your gift, the Foundation will send you an acknowledgement confirming the gift designation and a tax certificate, which can be used for tax purposes.
Most gifts are restricted to a particular project, programme or endowment. We deposit these gifts into accounts established at the request of donors and project owners to hold gift funds. You will see that designation confirmed on the gift receipt and thank you note sent to you after the gift is received.
When the University project owner submits a spending request, the Foundation first ensures that the request meets the donor’s purpose of the fund, then requests for the release of the funds. The Foundation therefore does exactly what the donors ask us to do with their gifts.
Unrestricted gifts are utilised in the areas of greatest need.
Are there fees associated with my gift and why is it necessary?
The Foundation assesses a 5% gift fee, which contributes to covering the expenses associated with establishing and managing funds. These tasks demand meticulous attention and expertise from our skilled staff. Many donors, in appreciation of the Foundation’s efforts, interpret this fee as a supplementary contribution that supports essential development activities which significantly benefit students.
By making sustaining contributions, donors play a crucial role in lessening the Foundation’s reliance on University funding. This, in turn, allows the University to allocate its public resources to the advancement of faculty and students directly.
Are my donations to the Foundation tax-deductible?
Yes. The Foundation is registered trust awarded charitable status by the Namibia Revenue Agency. Your donations to the University made through the Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
How does the Foundation ensure accountability?
The Foundation is committed to retaining both public and private trust as we understand the impact it has on our operations. We disclose information about financial statements, fundraising priorities and other information that helps further an understanding of its mission and goals on our website and publications.
We have a robust governance system overseen by our Board of Trustees, who report to the University Council biannually. Annual audits are conducted to ensure transparency in the financial operations of the Trust, while the University’s Internal Audit department oversees our risk management processes. Approved audited statements and Annual Stakeholder Reports are shared with the University Council and management annually.
We also share our Annual Stakeholder Reports with our donors and interested parties.
This commitment to accountability underscores our dedication to responsible financial stewardship.
How can I get involved with the UNAM Foundation?
Whether you are an individual or represent an organisation, there are multiple ways that you can get involved.
- Providing financial or in-kind gifts
- Volunteering your time and services
- Connect the Foundation to potential donors or volunteers
- Spreading the word on our mission and donation opportunities
Reach out to our office at unamfoundation@unam.na, and we will assist you in developing a giving program that aligns with your vision.
How can I make a gift or pledge to the Foundation?
The fastest and easiest way is through our secure online giving site. Be sure to let us know the area you want to impact.
We also always have campaigns running on GivenGain.
For larger gifts, estate plan gifts or in-kind gifts, please us at unamfoundation@unam.na or +264 61 – 206 3262.
You are also welcome to contact us should you need guidance on where and how to gift the University.
How can I stay informed about the Foundation's activities?
Stay connected with us through our social media platforms @unamfoundation. For personalised updates and fast assistance, provide us with your email address at unamfoundation@unam.na. We also encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter for regular information on our latest activities, projects, and initiatives. Our commitment is to keep you informed as we work towards our mission and goals.
How do I contribute to an existing bursary fund?
Establishing a bursary fund may not be the right fit for everyone.
We therefore welcome donations of any size towards the Foundation’s existing bursary fund the UNAM Students’ Financial Assistance Fund, which specifically caters for students from diverse backgrounds underrepresented in higher education and pressured by financial difficulties. The Fund provides for tuition, accommodation, books, and meals, while it also has an emergency component for urgent non-academic needs which could negatively affect academic performance. Funding is provided once-off based on a thorough assessment process, done in collaboration with the University’s Office of Student Affairs.
For donors considering a longer-term commitment, longer term pledges to the Fund are welcomed, which will cater for an assured and steady ability to award bursaries. Should you opt to make a pledge, one of our team members will guide you through the process, assisting you in completing a gift commitment form or helping you identify an existing bursary fund which aligns with your values.
What are some examples of bursary award criteria?
Financial needs based: For students with financial needs
Merit based: For students with high academic achievements
Academic discipline-specific: For students studying toward a specific qualification or field of study.
Level of studies: Under- or postgraduate levels
Diversity-based: Based on gender, geographic location, official marginalization specifications, mental and physical disabilities, etc.
Talent in Sports: For students who excel in national and international sport codes
What are some examples of bursary award criteria?
The average investment for a student to attain quality education at a university is N$80,000 per academic year depending on the course of study. This caters for registration and tuition fees, housing, living and transport costs, and a book allowance.
Donors may decide to provide full or partial bursaries, i.e., supporting only one, a few or all the costs associated with studies. In the same way, some donors opt to support a single academic year, while others structure their support to support the same student for the full four years of studies. It really depends on funding availability and individual preferences and values. Whatever support is granted, always makes a difference.
What are some examples of bursary award criteria?
If so desired, we can facilitate donor – bursary students’ engagements. Current and past students found such engagements very meaningful.
Past and current donors also offered internship and employability opportunities to their bursary holders, while others provided mentorship opportunities.
Are bursaries management by the Foundation on behalf of donors for the benefit of students registered at the University of Namibia only?
No. Depending on the donor’s vision for the funds, the Foundation adheres to specific instructions regarding the choice or choices of accredited higher institutions within Namibia and beyond. The Foundation is committed to aligning with each donor’s preferences to ensure that their philanthropic vision is realised.
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