Workers at Namibia's student loan agency face uncertainty about their jobs and pay. Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp refuses to share details about bringing the agency back under government control. Employees say leaders have kept them in the dark about major changes ahead. The Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund will merge with the education ministry after lawmakers passed new rules. Staff members worry about losing money and benefits they depend on for house and car payments.
Agency workers sent letters asking for clear answers about their future. They want to know if their salaries will stay the same when they move to the ministry. Management has not explained how the transfer will work under labor laws. Some employees think they might lose their current jobs and have to apply for new ones. The government plans to make college free starting in 2026 which raises questions about whether the loan agency will still be needed.
Workers complain that politicians often pressure them to approve loans outside normal rules. They have improved computer systems and made the application process easier over recent years. Agency leaders hired counselors to help stressed employees deal with the changes. Staff members say they need real information about their future rather than therapy sessions. A new task force will create plans for free education by August.
Agency workers sent letters asking for clear answers about their future. They want to know if their salaries will stay the same when they move to the ministry. Management has not explained how the transfer will work under labor laws. Some employees think they might lose their current jobs and have to apply for new ones. The government plans to make college free starting in 2026 which raises questions about whether the loan agency will still be needed.
Workers complain that politicians often pressure them to approve loans outside normal rules. They have improved computer systems and made the application process easier over recent years. Agency leaders hired counselors to help stressed employees deal with the changes. Staff members say they need real information about their future rather than therapy sessions. A new task force will create plans for free education by August.
