Ester Puye-Ipawa Ndatyoonawa Ndadi (left) and Rian Iyaloo Helao (right) are the recipients of a full tuition scholarship to the Namibia University of Science & Technology from Grandview Klein Diamonds.
New York— Grandview Klein Diamonds announced it has awarded scholarships to two female students from the Namibia University of Science & Technology (NUST).
Ester Puye-Ipawa Ndatyoonawa Ndadi, an electronics and telecommunications major from the Ohangwena region, and Rian Iyaloo Helao, an environmental health sciences major from the Oshana region, each received the full amount of tuition needed to complete their degrees.
They were presented with the awards in a ceremony held Nov. 24 at the NUST campus.
"This scholarship not only relieves my financial constraints but also reinforces my belief in education's power to drive long-term socio-economic growth and empowerment,” said Helao.
“I'm excited and grateful for the opportunities ahead. These scholarships inspire me to strive for excellence in my studies and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The scholarship winners received their awards at a formal ceremony held on campus and attended by dignitaries and special guests, including Dr. Lisho Mundia from the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation, and Rehabeam Nepaya from the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
"Today marks a significant moment as we extend our support to the academic aspirations of two outstanding students at Namibia University of Science & Technology,” said Moshe Klein, president of Grandview Klein Diamonds.
“Education is the cornerstone of development, and it is our honor to offer them these scholarships, ensuring they can complete their college education unhindered by financial constraints."
He added, "We acknowledge that fostering talented individuals and providing them with tools and opportunities are key to nurturing Namibia’s future leaders. This is why this initiative with NUST will be the first of many to come in the future.”
Ester Hakwenye, a director of Grandview Klein Namibia, said the scholarships signify more than just financial assistance.
“[The scholarships] symbolize GKD's steadfast dedication to creating pathways for success and dismantling barriers that hinder the pursuit of knowledge,” Hakwenye said.
“By supporting the education of these talented individuals, Grandview Klein Namibia is investing in not only their brighter futures, but also in the prosperity of the communities they represent.”
Grandview Klein said it is a “fervent advocate” for the UN Sustainability Goals (SDGs) and places an emphasis on SDG 5, gender equality, and SDG 4, quality education, which the company said are “integral components” of its values and pursuits.
It said it remains dedicated to uplifting women in southern Africa and helping them to advance through the impact of education.
The company has channeled investments into education, as well as healthcare, in Namibia through past initiatives as well.
In May, the company, with its local Namibian partners at Phillipine Angula Development Investments, refurbished the Eros Primary School’s computer science room, providing new, state-of-the-art equipment, as well as new walls and a ceiling. The donors also provided sanitary products to ensure no student has to miss school because of personal hygiene.
