Namibian President Sam Nujoma arrives at the airport in Abuja, Nigeria, January 29, 2005. African Union leaders are in Nigeria for the African Union summit. (REUTERS/George Esiri)

Namibian President Sam Nujoma has decided to become a student when he steps down after three terms at the helm of his country.

The 75-year-old will study geology within the science faculty at the University of Namibia (Unam).

The university's vice-chancellor, Lazarus Hangula, said Mr Nujoma's decision was a "cause of jubilation" for staff and students alike.

"We welcome him with an open heart," added Mr Hangula.

But in an apparent reference to the president's robust character and no-nonsense style, Mr Hangula also said: "His presence on the campus is certainly a challenge to all of us in many ways."

Mr Nujoma has been chancellor of Unam since 1992. He was recently re-appointed for another six-year term.

It is unclear whether the rules were bent to allow him a place on the geology course, as his formal qualifications are reported to be not of the calibre that would secure a university berth under normal circumstances.

In his 15 years in power, he often said he believed the mountains of Namibia were full of mineral wealth which had yet to be tapped.

Mr Nujoma took over the leadership of the South West African People's Organisation (Swapo) in 1962 and launched an armed struggle against South African rule.

He was elected president of Namibia in an election held in 1990 following independence from South Africa. He was subsequently re-elected in 1994 and 1999.

Mr Nujoma's retirement package, which makes him far richer than most students, has raised eyebrows in some quarters.

He will be paid a generous tax-free pension and receive a furnished official residence in the capital Windhoek, as well as having the use of vehicles fuelled and maintained by the state. 

(Agencies)