NSS to celebrate centenary
The Namibia Scientific Society (NSS) celebrates its centenary in March 2025, marking 100 years of promoting scientific research, education and the dissemination of knowledge in Namibia.A lot of time and effort is going into preparing for this milestone, including the current improvements happening on the property.
Founded in 1925, the society has played a crucial role in fostering intellectual growth and the exchange of ideas in the country. Over the years, it has facilitated the advancement of various scientific disciplines, from natural sciences to social sciences, encouraging research that has contributed to the nation's development.
The NSS was initially established in Windhoek, during a time when Namibia was under South African administration. Early on, its primary focus was on supporting European scientific endeavours, particularly in the fields of natural history and geology. However, over time, the scope of the society expanded, and it began to emphasise the importance of research that reflected the local environment, culture and socio-economic issues. This shift was pivotal in aligning the society's objectives with Namibia's evolving national identity and needs.
Research findings and relevant resources are stored in a comprehensive and well-maintained library, which holds well over fifty thousand titles, scans, slides and photos, mostly with bearing to Namibia.
Furthermore, the society acts as a facilitator and networking platform for the exchange of factual information and research, sought equally and eagerly by local and foreign scientists, researchers, interested laymen, lecturers and students alike.
Publishing
NSS activities include hosting lectures and conferences and publishing scientific journals that provide a platform for scholars and researchers to share their findings.
Kuiseb Publishers was established in-house, to release publications of various genres for society members and wider distribution.
The Namibia Scientific Society library is a renowned reference library that has been expanding continuously since its establishment. It has become one of the leading institutions in the world when it comes to information related to Namibia. Everything on the subject around the country is sought, carefully selected, catalogued and captured.
The library holds a variety of books, journals, newspaper articles, periodicals, dissertations, theses, articles, pictures, maps and films.
The contribution of material from members – both specialists and laymen – has enabled the library to become a centre of safeguarding information with well over 60 000 titles, 400 maps and 7 500 photos captured thus far.
While the majority of NSS librarian’s time is spent on processing newly gained material, specialised services like digitising Dias, and photos as well as VHS tapes and 8mm films are also offered.
As the NSS moves into its next century, it remains dedicated to supporting and inspiring the next generation of Namibian scientists, ensuring that science continues to play a vital role in the country's growth and development.