Meet Iris Shimhanda: A Trailblazer in Student Leadership at UNAM
By Chris Kaukemua | Africazine
In the realm of student representation at the University of Namibia (UNAM), one name stands out: Iris Shimhanda. Rising through the ranks from her early days as a student representative council (SRC) assistant to becoming the esteemed Secretary for Internal Affairs in 2025, Shimhanda exemplifies what true leadership looks like—coupling competence with an unwavering passion for service.
Reflecting on her journey, Shimhanda began her ascent in student leadership during her second year of study. Starting as an assistant in the SRC’s internal affairs office, she quickly showcased her dedication and skill, allowing her to secure a significant role as Secretary for Internal Affairs the following year. This transformation wasn’t just a personal achievement; it represented an opportunity to serve her peers and uplift student life on campus. Not only is she a proud Namibian debater—having been named the best national speaker at the Namibia Debate Nationals in 2023—Shimhanda has also represented her country in international competitions in both Togo and South Africa.
In her new role, Shimhanda emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability. “Creating an environment where students feel they can voice their concerns is crucial,” she noted. To facilitate this, she implemented online platforms that enable her peers to express grievances or suggestions, such as a Google Form for complaints and a dedicated WhatsApp group titled ‘Internal Affairs Reports and Feedback’. With her commitment to an open-door policy, she strives to ensure that students are not only heard but actively engaged in the SRC’s processes.
One of the standout issues on her agenda is student accommodation. With UNAM accommodating nearly 2,000 students despite hostel facilities only housing 1,200, Shimhanda recognizes the need for discussions on expanding available housing. “It’s critical that we ensure fair access to accommodation for all students,” she asserted, underlining her dedication to enhancing the university experience.
Shimhanda’s vision for the SRC also involves strengthening its digital presence, making it easier for students to engage and access resources. “I plan to work closely with each school representative to ensure that we communicate effectively and that no student feels excluded or uninformed,” she said.
Her experiences have shaped her philosophy on leadership. “Servanthood requires perseverance and a creative approach to inspire meaningful change,” she shared. “Leadership is about serving wholeheartedly and exceeding expectations. It’s about going that extra mile to inspire others.”
As Shimhanda strives to foster inclusivity and unity among students at UNAM, she reminds aspiring leaders to embrace the spirit of servanthood. “A university, much like a country, is only as strong as its weakest link. Every student deserves fair access and representation,” she concluded, painting a picture of a student body where everyone feels valued and secure.
With Iris Shimhanda at the helm, the future of student leadership at UNAM looks bright and promising.
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