The Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) held an engagement session with Master’s students funded under the Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) Scholarship Programme to discuss their study progress and scholarship extensions.
SASSCAL has so far supported 94 students to pursue Master’s studies under the programme. Of these, 30 students have graduated, while the remaining students are completing their studies.
The scholarship programme is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space under the Joint Communiqué of Intent (JCoI) signed between the Governments of Namibia and Germany.
The engagement was held to understand the students’ progress and identify any challenges that may affect their successful completion. Discussions focused on:
The current stage of their studies and research.
Progress made since receiving the scholarship.
Challenges or obstacles affecting their studies.
Support needed from supervisors, universities, departments and the scholarship office.
Scholarship Extension to Support Completion
Addressing the students, SASSCAL Executive Director Prof. Nelago Indongo explained that the engagement was mainly aimed at discussing the extension of their scholarships, which has been granted until the end of 2026.
“This extension has been granted to provide you with additional time and support to successfully complete your Master’s studies. We are here to encourage you to make the most of this opportunity by remaining focused, working diligently and meeting the remaining academic milestones,” said Prof. Indongo.
She further explained that SASSCAL wanted to establish whether students are on track to submit their theses by October 2026 for examination, as this is an important requirement for graduation at most institutions.
“This timeline is critical for us to know whether you will be able to complete your studies within the extended scholarship period. I encourage you to give an honest assessment of your progress so that we can identify where additional support may be needed,” she said.
Students Share Their Progress
During the engagement, students shared updates on their studies. Many indicated that they were making good progress, with some already in the final stages and having submitted their Master’s theses for evaluation. Others are still in the middle stages of their studies.
Some students also shared challenges they are experiencing. SASSCAL will follow up with the students who raised concerns and work with them, together with their supervisors and institutions, to identify possible solutions.
Prof. Indongo encouraged students to develop clear work plans for the remaining months and to set realistic weekly targets.
“Work both hard and smart, remain disciplined and avoid falling behind schedule, with the support of your supervisors,” she advised.
She also encouraged students to remember that small, consistent efforts can make a significant difference in achieving their goals.
Making the Most of the Opportunity
Prof. Indongo reminded the students that the scholarship extension is a valuable opportunity to complete their studies without placing additional financial pressure on their parents, guardians and other supporters.
“The investment made in your education is intended to result in successful completion. We want to celebrate your achievements as funders and, where challenges exist, work together to find practical solutions,” she said.
She emphasised that the engagement was not intended to unnecessarily monitor students, but rather to understand their individual circumstances and provide the support needed to help them complete their studies.
SASSCAL encouraged the students to remain committed, work closely with their supervisors and maintain regular communication with their universities and the scholarship office.
With proper planning, dedication and continued support, SASSCAL is confident that the students will successfully complete their research and submit their theses within the extended scholarship period.
The engagement forms part of SASSCAL’s continued efforts to support scholarship beneficiaries and ensure that its investment in education contributes to the development of skilled young professionals who can support the region’s green economy and sustainable development.
