Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), formerly known as Polytechnic of Namibia, is a public university located in the city of Windhoek, Namibia.
The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) boasts a rich history intertwined with the development of higher education in Namibia itself. Its roots stretch back to 1980, with the establishment of the Academy for Tertiary Education (ATE), the first institution of higher learning in the then-apartheid South West Africa. The ATE initially offered teacher training and secretarial courses, laying the foundation for future growth.
Five years later, in 1985, the Academy expanded its offerings with the College for Out-of-School Training (COST), focusing on vocational and technical skills. This marked a significant step towards diversifying Namibia's educational landscape.
However, 1992 saw a major shift with the founding of the University of Namibia (UNAM). While UNAM became the primary university, the remaining sections of the ATE – COST and the Technikon Namibia – merged to form the Polytechnic of Namibia in 1994. This marked the Polytechnic's evolution into a more specialized institution focused on practical and applied fields.
The Polytechnic continued to develop, gradually phasing out vocational training and introducing degree programs. Its dedication to academic excellence earned recognition in 2015, culminating in its official designation as the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). This milestone reflected NUST's commitment to research, innovation, and fostering future generations of skilled professionals in science, technology, engineering, and beyond.
Today, NUST stands as Namibia's largest university, a testament to its journey from humble beginnings to a leading institution of higher learning. Its story is one of transformation, resilience, and a unwavering dedication to nurturing Namibia's intellectual and technological future.
Namibia University of Science and Technology is ranked as the #1 top university in Namibia during 2024.
