NUST staff shine at SAUSSA Games
A group of 88 staff members from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) flew the university’s flag high at the recently concluded 2024 Southern African Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA) Games.The 23rd edition of the games took place from 1 to 6 December in Harare, Zimbabwe, under the theme ‘Fostering Regional Integration Through Sports’.
Featuring more than 21 universities, NUST earned first and third-place rankings in three disciplines, namely chess, tennis and netball. NUST showed superior strategic prowess in chess, with the team outperforming the competition to take first place. The netball and women’s tennis teams also shone at the event, earning third-place rankings in both sport codes.
Lutopu Khoa, who competed against nine other universities as part of NUST’s chess team, said that even though they were considered the underdogs before the tournament, they earned the respect of their fellow competitors and proved that they are a “force to be reckoned with”.
Reflecting on the experience, she said what stood out to her most about the SAUSSA Games was meeting people from other universities and exchanging friendly banter.
The NUST Staff Sport and Social Club (NSSSC) chairperson Gabriel Mbokoma lauded his colleagues, saying: “It was an honour to lead such a brilliant team that represented the NUST brand to the fullest”. He added that “the SAUSSA Games present an opportunity to build camaraderie and enhance teamwork while reminding us that learning and growth extend beyond offices and lecture rooms”.
The university’s participation in the SAUSSA Games is part of its broader strategy to engage staff in activities that support physical and mental well-being while strengthening regional partnerships. NUST extends its gratitude to the organisers, the Zimbabwe Open University as the host institution, and fellow competitors for a memorable event.