Windhoek — The University of Namibia sports stadium yesterday blazed with various cultures and joyous moods as students packed the 10000-capacity arena to witness the opening of the highlight of the university calendar - the 16th Annual Cultural Festival.

A sea of traditionally attired students and performers mesmerised fellow students and invited guests as well as Namibian personalities with enriching events. All in the hope of enticing the judges to collect the winning prize of a floating trophy and substantial cash of N$500.

The official opening, lasting four hours, had the students glued to their seats, as they enjoyed the thrilling performances from the various groups.

In addition to the diverse Namibian cultural groups that played their hearts out for the audience, the winning Angolan cultural group entertained the crowds with improvised kwasa-rhumba and traditional folk dance. For the first time Angolan students actively participated in the festivities in the 16 years of existence of the festival, despite the fact that Unam has housed Angolan students for as long back as 10 years.

Reverend Hendrik Witbooi, who delivered the keynote address at this year's fair, urged the students to unite in purpose for the common good of the society, and reminded them that culture should play a big role in driving unity.

Furthermore, he urged the students to be vigilant in practising their diverse cultures while at the same time remaining peaceful and tolerant of each other.