3 July 2008
Windhoek — The Office of the Ombudsman has been requested to investigate the affairs of the University of Namibia (Unam), New Era has learnt.
It is not yet clear who submitted the request and when the request might have been submitted but the issues raised include allegations such as the unprocedural appointment of staff in violation of the university's policies, the Affirmative Action Act and the Labour Act.
It is further alleged that changes are not processed through the normal chains of command before adoption, especially concerning the election system within the institution. The complainant further alleges that staff members are allowed to act in positions longer than necessary as per the Labour Act provision and are even allowed to so act without the necessary qualifications.
Expatriates have their contracts extended in violation of the university's terms and conditions of employment.
Also to be investigated by the Office of Ombudsman, if indeed a request for such an investigation has been submitted to it, is the promotion of academics against recommendations of appropriate committees, mismanagement of the university's finances and general maladministration. The complainant also wants the Ombudsman to look into "unlimited powers" vested in the vice chancellor, which are apparently subject to abuse.
Neither the Office of the Ombudsman nor Unam could be reached for comment on the matter with both the chief investigators in the Office of the Ombudsman, Erastus Wanyengapo and Naomi Somaes, not available at the time of going to press.
The university's spokesperson could not be reached either.
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