Eba Kandovazu
THE Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) has confirmed the suspension of the Head of the Department of Communication in the Human Sciences Faculty.
NUST Acting Public Relations Officer, Nico Smit, has confirmed the suspension of Professor Rewai Makamani since 31 May this year, adding that investigations into the matter have been concluded although the disciplinary process is ongoing and the verdict is yet to be made.
A source at the University revealed that Makamani is accused of mismanagement, victimisation and nepotism claims, amongst other things. It is also being alleged that he victimised his colleague by locking him (the victim) inside his office (victim’s office) and leaving with the keys for an unspecified time. This, according to claims is after a scuffle ensued between the two lecturers. Allegations are that Makamani forced the victim to sign off documents regarding the appointment of ten Zimbabwean PHD holders as staff members in the department.
Smit did not comment on these claims, saying that the matter is being dealt with internally. Makamani refused to comment, adding that the University’s processes do not allow him to comment on the matter.
The University has seen a number of staff suspensions in the recent months, with the suspension of four other staff members coming in the spotlight recently. It is reported that the Vice Chancellor, Dr Erold Naomab, suspended the head of Vocational Education department last week following reports of a N$ 2.5 million student accommodation bill that the university owes.
All 52 students, funded by the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) were reportedly accommodated at the private luxury student accommodation facility, without prior authorisation from Naomab. The Director of the Student Services Department, Donovan Zealand, and Lance Hauanga, a lecturer and former Head of Technical and Vocational Education and Training, and the Director of Facilities, Oliver Quarmby, were also suspended in connection with the matter.
