UNAM Gā-aisib Repository
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Recent Submissions
Lecturers’ and students’ perceptions of the barriers to effective evaluation of teaching and learning in two campuses of a Namibian public university
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shemuketa, Havelinus Ndalundulula; Shaimemanya, Cornelia
The evaluation of teaching and learning is recognised as one of the primary feedback
mechanisms and contributes to quality assurance in universities worldwide. To obtain
feedback on teaching and student learning experiences, a Namibian public university
adopted an evaluation system. However, scholars criticised the effectiveness of this
evaluation system, due to significant low response rates, failure to achieve intended
objectives, questionable trustworthiness, and doubtful contribution to quality
assurance. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was three-fold, first, to explore
the lecturers’ and students’ perceptions regarding the barriers to effective evaluation of
teaching and learning, second, to generate recommendations for mitigating the
perceived barriers, and third, to develop guidelines for effective evaluation of teaching
and learning in two campuses of the Namibian public university. Underpinned by an
interpretivist paradigm and framed within the Vroom’s expectancy theory, this single
case study employed qualitative research methodology for data collection, analysis, and
presentation of findings. In a population of nearly two thousand lecturers and thirty
thousand students, a sample of thirty-five participants, comprising of fifteen lecturers
and twenty students was purposefully selected from two campuses of the Namibian
public university. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured, key
informant interviews. Applying systematic thematic analysis, aligned to the primary
research questions, the study found several perceived barriers pertaining to ineffective
survey design, lack of awareness, poor evaluation administration, survey fatigue,
voluntary participation, limited access to internet. From the lecturers’ perspectives,
participation was driven by personal interests in self-reflective practice, employment
contract renewals, and academic promotions. In addition, the study uncovered the
lecturer-perceived barriers, such as lack of responsibility among students, lack of
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accountability among lecturers, lack of effort by some lecturers and students, fear of
consequences, lack of control measures, apathy, poor utilisation of student
recommendations, potential misuse of evaluation reports, grading leniency and
lowering of standards. From the students’ perspectives, participation was motivated by
convenience, anonymity, incentives and fulfilled expectations for improved teaching
and learning experiences. Furthermore, the study found that the student-perceived
barriers include lack of awareness, apathy, lack of feedback literacy, fear of
repercussions and the lecturers’ conduct towards students. Therefore, the study
generated recommendations including improving internet connectivity, expanding
engagement activities, simplifying administrative processes, and providing incentives.
Lastly, the researcher applied a tripartite model to develop guidelines for effective
evaluation of teaching and learning in two campuses of the Namibian public university
The causes and socio-economic effects of divorce on family structures in Namibia: Recommendations for social work practice
(University of Namibia, 2025) Theofelus, Johanna Iyaloo; Kamwanyah, Ndumba J.
This study explored the socio-economic effects of divorce on family structuresinNamibia, focusing on the Oshana Region. The high divorce rate in this region has beenaconcern, with 827 divorces recorded at the Oshakati High Court between 2018 and2021. The study employed a qualitative research approach, using interviews and focus groupdiscussions with 16 participants, including 12 divorced couples and 4 social workers. Thefindings revealed that the main causes of divorce in Oshana Region are poor marital
communication, infidelity, and poor sexual relationships. The socio-economic effectsofdivorce on parents include financial challenges, emotional stress, and depression. Thestudy also found that the dissolution of marriage leads to family dissociationandpsychological disturbance among both divorcing parents and their children. The study'sfindings are consistent with the reviewed literature, which suggests that global trendsindivorce are driven by modernisation and changes in societal values. The results highlight
the need for effective communication, conflict resolution skills, and a strong foundationfor a successful marriage. The study's conclusions emphasised the importanceofaddressing the root causes of divorce, such as poor marital communication and infidelity, to mitigate the negative effects on family structures. The study recommends that social
workers and policymakers prioritise support services for divorced families to mitigatethepsychological and financial impacts of divorce. The study contributes totheunderstanding of divorce trends in Namibia and highlights the need for a comprehensiveapproach in addressing the socio-economic effects of divorce on family structures
Aspects of ecology of roan (Hippotragus equinus Desmarest, 1804) and sable (Hippotragus niger Harris, 1838) in the Mudumu National Park, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Nauyoma, Lineekelaomwene Tuhafeni; Fabiano, Ezequiel
In and around Namibia's Mudumu National Park (MNP), the international veterinary fence
between Namibia and Botswana, human population growth and land use change are threatening
both the roan (Hippotragus equinus Desmarest, 1804) and sable (H. niger Harris, 1838)
antelopes. Populations trends, genetic diversity, and habitat use of roan and sable are largely
unknown in MNP. However, research on these factors is limited in MNP and beyond. This lack
of knowledge makes it difficult to assess population status and increases the risk of local
extinctions for both species, which can have dramatic consequences for the economy and
equilibrium of ecosystems. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of the
patterns of spatial distribution, contemporary demography, and patterns of genetic diversity of
roan and sable populations in the MNP. We conducted camera trap surveys in the wet (MarchMay) and dry (June-September) seasons in 2021 to collect roan and sable
detection/nondetection data, as well as data on habitat variables. Aerial herbivore counts were
conducted using straight-line transects from 1980 to 2019. The National Aeronautics and Space
Administration's POWER Data Access Viewer was used to acquire rainfall and temperature
data. This study also used non-invasive genetic sampling and extracted mitochondrial DNA
and nuclear DNA from fecal samples collected in the MNP between March and November
2021. Results showed that roans in the wet season were detected more at sites with higher grass
cover but detected less at sites near the Kwando River. In the dry season, roans were detected
more at sites with higher grass cover and termite mounds, but detected less at sites near the
Kwando River. In the wet season, sables were detected more at sites with decreased termite
mounds. Results also showed that the Time in Front of the Camera model provided low density
estimates of 1.62 (95% CI 1.61 - 1.64) roan/km2
and 2.46 (95% CI 2.42 - 2.50) sable/km2
. Roan
counts after establishment (2010-2019) of the regional reserve as a National Park were
significantly higher than the roan counts before establishment of the Park (1980-1989). Finally,
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the results showed that populations of both antelopes exhibit higher levels of genetic diversity.
Roan and sable are predominantly grazers, and termite mounds provide natural salts and soil
nutrients for palatable grasses. The findings suggest that both species requires the segregation
of resources such as food and habitat use, to mediate sympatric coexistence with other
ungulates in the MNP. We hypothesized that roan and sable use fewer areas near permanent
water to avoid high predator densities and high grazing intensity by dense herds of short-grass
grazers. Protected areas are considered by many as the cornerstone for conservation. The higher
levels of genetic diversity in both species were similar to that found in populations from
neighbouring countries. Therefore, some potential management actions to consider include
creation of grasslands and planting of termite mounds from existing termite mounds.
Monitoring the population size of all the Park's herbivores and predators, and using noninvasive
genetic techniques and camera traps, will inform and develop comprehensive conservation
strategies to reduce the risk of extinction for the roan and sable. In addition, recording rainfall
and temperature in MNP can help assess the impact of climate change on the Park's wildlife
A critical analysis of the evolution and practice of public administration in the Zambezi region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Khama, Bollen Simataa; Lwendo, Brian
Good governance is the process whereby public institutions conduct public affairs and
manage public resources in a manner that promotes the rule of law and the realisation of
human rights (civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights) to strengthen
democracy. Conversely, bad governance creates political and administrative turmoil. The
purpose of this study was to critically analyse the evolution of public administration as a
practice in the Zambezi Region. The study was bolstered by a conceptual framework
centering on bureaucracy, organisational design, and contemporary management theories.
The review of the literature addressed aspects such as Governing Authorities, Public
Administration, and Service Delivery. Following a case study design, purposive sampling
and cluster sampling were used to select both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
Thus, a mixed method was used in the study. Through a narrative approach, the data were
analysed, interpreted, and presented in graphs. The study revealed that the Zambezi
Region was governed by different Governing Authorities. Moreover, the evolution of
public administrations in the region is to be understood as emanating from the indigenous
culture and the colonial regimes. The empirical findings established that there are
numerous challenges that threaten the principles of good governance and satisfactory
service delivery to the inhabitants of the Zambezi Region. Sufficient evidence was
produced for this study to make some recommendations. It recommends that the
Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) should acquaint and induct the Governing
Authority leaders regarding the chronological history and the genesis of public
administration in the Zambezi Region. Public office bearers and officials should receive
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relevant training and induction on the principles of good governance. Clear guidelines
should be developed for the indigenous people and political and administrative cultures to
collaborate on government policy formulation and decision-making
Exploring the factors contributing to burnout among social workers at a selected state hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic in Oshana region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shikola, Veronika Kaunalenga; Kwamwanyah, Ndumba J.
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to healthcare and
social service providers worldwide, significantly impacting their physical and mental
well-being. In Namibia, social workers at a selected State Hospital in Oshana Region,
Namibia have faced increased workloads, resource shortages, and emotional stress, yet
limited research has focused on burnout within this key workforce. This qualitative,
interpretivist study explored the factors contributing to burnout among social workers
in the Oshana Region during the pandemic.
Employing a census sampling of all 15 social workers at a selected State Hospital in
Oshana Region, data were collected through face-to-face in-depth interviews and
analysed via thematic analysis. The study identified five core factors contributing to
burnout: workload and staffing challenges, emotional and psychological stressors, lack
of organizational support, inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and
resources; and constrained resilience processes shaped by personal, social, and
organizational factors.
The findings reveal that burnout adversely affects social workers’ mental health, job
motivation, and capacity to deliver quality support, leading to increased absenteeism,
staff turnover, and strained personal relationships. To address these issues, the study
proposes enhancing organizational support, implementing programs that strengthen
resilience processes through both individual and environmental resources, improving
resource allocation, adopting flexible work arrangements, establishing peer support
networks, and developing comprehensive policies aimed at burnout prevention. The
insights gained aim to inform policy and practice, fostering workforce resilience,
improving service quality, and safeguarding the well-being of social workers and the
communities they serve in Namibia
The influence of solid waste management practices on the reduction of recidivism among male inmates at Windhoek Correctional Facility, Khomas region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Noabeb, Mbetjiura; Freeman, Rachel Johanna
This qualitative study explored the influence of Solid Waste Management Practices on the
reduction of recidivism among male inmates at Windhoek Correctional Facility, Khomas
Region, Namibia, a persisting issue prevalent at this facility. Grounded in Bronfenbrenner's
Ecological Systems Theory (1979), the analysis took a three-tiered approach to examine
individual risk factors, institutional influences, and societal contributions of recidivism. The
study population comprised of thirty (30) participants who were selected via purposeful
sampling consisting of ten male repeat inmates, ten correctional officers and ten managers.
In addition to the thirty participants, two focus group discussions were organised using
purposeful sampling as well, of which six repeat inmates formed one group while the other
group was a combination of three managers and three correctional officers. Data collection
involved face-to-face semi-structured interviews with individuals’ participants and facilitated
focus group discussions guided by scheduled interview guide in both scenarios. The data used
thematic data analysis, while the data was verified using Lincoln and Guba’s model (Bryman,
2012). Findings suggest that high recidivism rates at WCF are linked to socio-economic
challenges, insufficient rehabilitative programmes, and a lack of post-release assistance.
Recommendations include institutionalising of solid waste management (SWM) programmes
within correctional facilities. Strengthening technical skills training and increasing inmate
participation in SWM activities may enhance post-release employment prospects and reduce
the likelihood of reoffending. The integration of SWM with circular economy principles
could further support social reintegration and promote environmental sustainability
Social work experiences challenges and enablers of providing trauma-informed services to Motor Vehicle Accident survivors in Khomas region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Mwilima, Yvone Chaze; Nashandi, Johanna Christa
Although motor vehicle accidents (MVA) is a prevalent in Namibia, no research has
explored the role of social workers in delivering trauma-informed practice (TIP) related services
to MVA survivors in hospitals settings. This qualitative, narrative design study investigates the
experiences, challenges, and enablers faced by social workers in addressing trauma when working
with MVA survivors. The study was conducted in Windhoek located in the Khomas Region. A
total of 10 social workers (nine female and one male) were purposively sampled from hospital
settings. Participants were between 29- 49 years, had bachelors and masters’ qualifications, with
between 2 to 11 years’ experience. Participants worked in public (six) and private (four) hospitals
and most (eight) had no trauma related training.
Inductive analysis of semi-structured, individual interviews revealed several emerging
themes in providing (TIP) related services to MVA survivors. Social workers experienced high
caseloads contributing to emotional exhaustion, long working hours, and the recognition that MVA
survivors with childhood trauma tend to re-live trauma experiences. Challenges to providing
trauma-informed services included limited post-hospital services and training in responding with
appropriate interventions. Enablers to providing (TIP) included self-directed web-based learning,
peer, support and supervision support. Participants recommended improving (TIP) through
lifelong learning, tailored trauma-informed material, and establishing community survivor
platforms. Findings suggest that social workers demonstrate some (TIP) assumptions but,
structural limitations, tailored trauma-informed psychosocial resources and training, impede their
realization, response, and resisting re-traumatization of trauma among MVA survivors. Further,
research from the perspective of MVA survivors’ is needed to enhance practice
Cluster length dependence of electronic, optical properties and the rate of charge transfer in transition metal doped (TiO2)n and Tin-1(TM)O2n clusters (n = 2-10)
(University of Namibia, 2025) Kapofi, Salatiel; Ramasami, Ponnadurai
The (TiO2)n clusters were doped with transitional metals (TM): tungsten (W),
chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), technetium (Tc), rhodium (Rh), and ruthenium
(Ru), which resulted in the formation of Tin-1(TM)O2n clusters. They were studied
using B3PW91, B3LYP, BPW91 and B3P86 functional and 6-311+G(d) and 6-
311++G(d, p) basis sets for the oxygen atom. Stuttgart-Dresden (SDD) effective core
potential (ECP) represents the basis sets for the transition metals for their electronic,
optical, and structural properties. The neutral and singly charged anionic ground state
structures of TinO2n and Tin-1(TM)O2n clusters (n=2-10) were fully optimised. There is
a significant reduction of the HOMO-LUMO (HL) gap narrowing. The TM doped
(TiO2)n (n=2-10) clusters attained a visible light absorption, as confirmed by the TDDFT results of UV-Vis’s absorption spectra. The molecular binding energy (Eb),
chemical hardness (η) and chemical potential (μ) were calculated to evaluate the
thermodynamic stability and chemical stability of the neutral (TiO2)n and Tin-1(TM)O2n
clusters. The reorganisation energy was calculated as a function of the vertical electron
affinity, vertical ionisation potential, adiabatic ionisation potential, adiabatic electron
detachment energy, and vertical electron detachment energy. These electronic energies
are significant in determination of reactivity, stability, and the affinity toward electrons
of the molecular cluster of (TiO2)n and Tin-1(TM)O2n both in neutral and singly anionic
states. In the cluster length of n = 2-10, some clusters were found to have higher hole
mobility (𝜆ℎ > 𝜆𝑒
) and such clusters may be useful for electron transporting devices
and may be categorised as an n-type, as an electron acceptor material. While other
clusters have higher electron carrier as (𝜆𝑒 > 𝜆ℎ) p-type and therefore clusters may be
well suited as an electron donor. Tin-1(TM)O2n clusters can be used in the development
of highly efficient solar cells, photo-catalytic activity, and other optical applications
Influence of principals' instructional leadership roles on learners’ academic performance at selected public secondary schools in the Khomas region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Kazonga, James; Shikukumwa, Tadeus
In the Khomas Region, 75%, 67.6% and 71% of the total number of Namibia Senior
Secondary Ordinary level candidates failed to qualify for grade 12 in 2022, 2023 and
2024, respectively (MoEAC, 2025). Therefore, the Khomas Region failed to meet its
set regional target for academic improvement of 50% (MoEAC, 2023). It is against
this background that this study focused on the influence of principals’ instructional
leadership roles on learners’ academic performance at secondary schools. A case study
design and qualitative research approach were used to investigate this phenomenon.
The study was conducted in the Khomas Region in Namibia. Four public secondary
schools were selected by through purposive sampling method, comprising two highperforming schools and two low-performing schools, based on the 2022-2024 grade
11 NSSCO national examination results. 22 participants who experienced the
phenomenon under study, which included 3 principals, 8 HoDs and 11 teachers from
the 4 schools, were interviewed to generate in-depth data that clarified misconceptions
about this study, such as, the principals directly teach, the instructional leadership is
the only factor and that instructional leadership is about monitoring teachers only.
Additionally, observation and document analysis were adopted to triangulate the
interview responses, ensuring the findings’ credibility. The data were colour-coded
into themes. The study found that the influence of the principals who actively engage
in instructional leadership, such as setting clear goals, promoting conducive school
climate, managing instructional programmes, providing resources and developing
leadership skills and knowledge, positively correlates with high learners’ performance.
These findings may benefit the principals by assisting them to nurture professional
relations with teachers, learners and parents to work together toward the advancement
of learners’ academic performance. They may also assist policymakers in reviewing
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the educational policies on leadership and management to enhance learners’ academic
performance. The study recommended that a longitudinal study could assess the longterm effects of principals’ instructional leadership on academic performance in
selected public schools in Khomas region. It also recommended that carrying out
comparative studies cross different regions on the principals’ instructional leadership
influence on the learners’ academic performance could investigate whether the
influence of principals’ instructional leadership on learners’ academic performance
varies across different regions, for instance, rural versus urban, or Kavango versus
Khomas
Factors affecting mathematics performance of learners in grade 11: Perceptions of teachers at two selected public schools in the Khomas region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Wombulu, Ndinelago N.; Amushigamo, Angelina Popyeni
The performance of learners in mathematics at the senior secondary level in Namibia
remains a persistent educational concern, particularly at the Grade 11 level under the
revised Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary (NSSCO) curriculum. This
qualitative study examined the perceptions of Grade 11 mathematics teachers
regarding factors influencing learner performance in two selected public schools in the
Khomas Region. The study adopted an interpretivist paradigm and employed a case
study design. Data were gathered in semi-structured interviews with six purposively
selected teachers, supplemented by classroom observations and document analysis.
Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and insights. The findings
revealed that the revised mathematics curriculum posed significant challenges,
including excessive content, the promotion of unprepared learners, inadequate
instructional time, and minimal teacher training on the new curriculum. Teachers
reported that mixed ability classrooms, poor foundational skills, negative learner
attitudes, and limited teaching resources further exacerbated performance gaps. The
researcher concludes that learner performance in Grade 11 mathematics is shaped by
a complex interplay of curriculum demands, institutional support, teacher capacity,
and learner readiness. Hence, ongoing professional development (PD), curriculum
alignment with learner capabilities, and provision of resources to enable effective
mathematics teaching and learning are recommended. These findings are particularly
relevant for curriculum planners, school leaders, and policymakers seeking to improve
mathematics education in Namibia