NUST- RFA Signs N$10 Million Funding Agreement for Research and Innovation

By Staff Reporter

The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) and the Road Fund Administration (RFA) signed an agreement on Monday that will see RFA invest over N$2 million annually for the next five years to advance research and innovation in Namibia’s road sector.

The funding agreement aims to strengthen research, innovation, and capacity development within Namibia’s road sector.

The signing of the five-year strategic agreement marks a significant milestone in aligning academic research with national priorities, particularly in addressing evolving infrastructure challenges in road funding, maintenance, and sustainability.

The partnership of the two institutions includes the development of alternative revenue streams, including distance-based road user charges and road user charges for electric vehicles.

Exploration of public-private partnership models to support infrastructure financing,

Research into climate-resilient road infrastructure and funding mechanisms, and the evaluation of sustainable construction materials and cost-effective maintenance approaches,

Strengthening of laboratory capacity and technical research infrastructure.

In return, NUST, as per its mandate, will produce high-quality human capital in science and technology, advance research excellence, and foster an entrepreneurial culture that enables students and researchers to translate ideas into viable enterprises.

This approach supports Namibia’s transition towards a knowledge- based economy, in alignment with Vision 2030 and the National Development Plans.

NUST Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Andrew Niikondo, pointed out that “This partnership reflects a shared vision between NUST and RFA to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry application. The University’s Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships will facilitate the co-creation of solutions, applied research with real-world impact, and technology-driven innovation.”

The Road Fund Administration noted that the partnership is a strategic intervention to support its mandate towards the financial sustainability of Namibia’s road network, which remains a critical enabler of economic growth, trade, and social development.

Despite challenges of increasing funding pressures, rising construction and maintenance costs, and climate-related risks in the long-run, Namibia’s road network continues to rank among the best on the continent.

RFA also cautioned that the road sector is currently under-funded with the budget of N$3.7 billion for the 2025/2026 financial year, which needs financial solutions to address.

“Recent fuel levy relief measures aimed at cushioning consumers from rising living costs are also expected to reduce revenue inflows to the Road Fund, further reinforcing the importance of diversified and resilient funding mechanisms for road infrastructure.

Against this backdrop, the RFA seeks to leverage NUST’s academic and research capabilities to develop innovative, evidence-based solutions that enhance the efficiency, resilience, and long-term sustainability of the road sector

The partnership reflects a deliberate shift toward innovation, research, and practical solutions that respond to the changing realities of the transport sector. As the RFA emphasises, tomorrow’s infrastructure cannot continue to be funded with yesterday’s mindset.” Quotes the media statement.

The collaboration also supports the RFA’s strategic objective of strengthening innovation and building human capital within the road sector by creating opportunities for students and young professionals to engage in applied research and real-world infrastructure challenges.

Mr. Ali Ipinge, Chief Executive Officer of the RFA, stated that “This partnership represents a strategic step towards strengthening the sustainability of Namibia’s road sector. By integrating research, innovation, and practical application, we are laying the foundation for more efficient funding models, resilient infrastructure, and informed decision-making that will benefit the

country in the long term. We cannot continue to fund tomorrow’s infrastructure with yesterday’s mindset. The future of our road network will be built through collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.”

In conclusion, the RFA and NUST reaffirm their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning to ensure Namibia’s road network remains resilient, efficient, and capable of supporting the country’s future growth.

ENDS…