In a vibrant exchange of academic innovation and institutional development, MUT’s Teaching and Learning Development Centre (TLDC), on 25-26 August, hosted a delegation from Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), led by Dr Colen Tuaunde, Director of Academic Development at NUST. The delegation included senior programme managers at NUST, Dr Anneley Willemse and Ester Johannes, responsible for coordinating quality assurance and curriculum development activities, respectively. The benchmark visit focused on critical areas of academic success, particularly MUT’s renowned approaches to E-Learning, the First Year Experience (FYE), student support mechanisms, cooperative education, and internal quality assurance systems.
This landmark engagement underscored MUT’s growing reputation as a leader in transformative teaching and learning practices. Central to the success of this initiative was the exceptional role played by the Teaching and Learning Development Centre (TLDC), under the capable leadership of Dr Manyane Makua, Senior Director of TLDC. With a vision grounded in student success and academic excellence, TLDC showcased a series of strategic interventions and frameworks that have proven effective in shaping holistic student development at MUT.
During the visit, the NUST team was immersed in rich discussions and presentations around MUT’s proactive identification and support systems for students at risk, academic advising models, and the strategic implementation of its FYE programme. These systems, designed to enhance student retention and academic progression, were received with keen interest by the visiting team, who highlighted the relevance of these initiatives for adaptation in the Namibian context.
Another highlight of the visit was MUT’s approach to Cooperative Education and the robust quality assurance mechanisms embedded in the university’s programme development processes. The Quality Management Directorate at MUT detailed its role in overseeing internal programme quality audits, accreditation, and continuous review systems. The NUST delegation was particularly impressed by MUT’s integration of quality assurance into the academic fabric, aligning teaching practices with national and international standards.
Potential areas for collaboration between the two institutions were also explored, including joint research initiatives, co-development of quality frameworks, and staff development programmes. Both universities expressed enthusiasm for forging long-term partnerships to strengthen academic programme development and quality enhancement.