On 18 May, The Association of Diplomatic Spouses (ADS), held its Diplomatic International Food and Craft Bazaar at the Namibia University of Science and Technology’s (NUST) Hotel School.
The theme for the 2024 Bazaar was “Education – The Passport to Your Future,” which resonated with the organisers in their shared mission to empower through education.
Contributions will directly support educational projects, including the NUST Eenhana Student Welfare Fund, which assists gifted students in pursuing their academic endeavors.
Since its establishment in 1992, ADS has been an active contributor in charitable causes with a focus on supporting disadvantaged communities, vulnerable women and children, orphans, and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
More than 29 countries exhibited on the day, where they offered a variety of international cuisines, arts, crafts, and performances. In attendance were notable dignitaries including the Executive Director in the Ministry of Education, Art and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, and ambassadors of various embassies in Namibia.
Speaking at the event, Steenkamp said: “Every one person’s life that is uplifted and empowered through education, 14 more people benefit through this generosity.
“We recognise the organisers and sponsors of this event not just as partners but as the team which made this event such a wonderful experience.”
On the day of the event, President of the Association of Diplomatic Spouses (ADS), Matthias Geisler, thanked the sponsors and embassies and high commissions for their contribution to the bazaar.
Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Partnerships at NUST, Dr. Collin Stanley said: “The bazaar marks the inception of a fund specifically designed to support our students studying at the Eenhana Campus who face challenges stemming from their rural location.”
‘The success of these efforts will be measured by our students attaining academic excellence and successful completion of their studies,” he added.
Nedbank Namibia was among the few corporate companies which came out to support the event.
Nedbank Namibia Communications and Public Relations Manager, Selma Kaulinge said: “As money experts who do good, this donation is part of our ongoing efforts to support educational initiatives which enable the beneficiaries to develop and enhance their skills. We believe that by supporting education, we are helping build a prosperous future.”
In the photo: President of Association of Diplomatic Spouses (ADS), Matthias Geisler; Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Partnerships at NUST, Dr. Collin Stanley; and Executive Director in the Ministry of Education, Art and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp.
