Dr Neville Comins (right) is welcomed by the Rector of Polytechnic Namibia, Dr Tjivikua (left), with the President of the Republic of Namibia, H.E. Mr Pohamba (middle left) and the Council Chairman, Rev Kathindi (middle right) looking on. Dr Comins addressing the audience of close to 2 000 at the Polytechnic Namibia Graduation Ceremony.

Hub CEO visits Polytechnic in Namibia

Dr Neville Comins, CEO of The Innovation Hub, was the guest speaker at the Polytechnic of Namibia's 11th Graduation Ceremony in Windhoek early in April this year.

The theme of the event - "Innovation for a Knowledge-based Economy" - aligns exactly with the ethos of the high-tech community created at the Hub, and enabled Comins to share best practice and lessons learnt in establishing the Hub as Africa's first internationally accredited Science Park. One of the objectives has been to create an innovative, supportive environment to support knowledge workers and spur business growth in the knowledge economy. As a member of the International Board of the International Association of Science Parks (IASP), Comins also shared broader observations on international Science Park and Incubator developments.

The event saw over 1 000 students graduate, with enthusiastic support from families and friends. The keynote address was delivered by the President of the Republic of Namibia, H.E. Mr Pohamba, followed by presentations from the Polytechnic's Council Chairman, Rev Kathindi and the Rector, Dr Tjivikua. Business leaders attending the graduation included, amongst many others, Mr Nuyoma, CEO of the Development Bank of Namibia.

This visit also provided opportunity for wide-ranging discussions with leaders in national and local government. This included the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Gurirab, and the CEO of Windhoek, Mr Taapoki.

According to Comins, "It is clear that countries in South Africa are rising to the challenge of their growing participation in the knowledge economy, and that many opportunities exists for collaboration with other countries."

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