Swakopmund:The Erongo Region has appealed to the private sector, development partners, and other stakeholders to form partnerships to tackle the shortages in education infrastructure which are exacerbated by rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic development.
According to Namibia Press Agency, this appeal was made during the first Erongo Education Infrastructure Investment Conference held on Tuesday. The event gathered regional representatives, education officials, businesses, and potential development partners to advance from merely identifying infrastructure challenges to securing practical investments and partnerships.
Erongo Governor Natalia /Goagoses emphasized the necessity for stronger coordination between central and regional governments, municipalities, private companies, and communities for the development of education infrastructure. She highlighted the importance of involving regional authorities in decision-making to enhance accountability, monitoring, and value for money.
Furthermore, /Goagoses underscored the need to align education infrastructure development with the region's evolving economy, driven by industries such as mining and energy, which require new skills. She advocated for increased investment in technical and vocational education and training facilities to equip young Namibians for emerging opportunities in the region.
The region currently operates 99 schools, accommodating 60,988 learners and 2,137 teachers across the Omaruru, Swakopmund, and Walvis Bay circuits. Acting Regional Director of Education Helena Asino projected that the learner population would increase to 67,239 by 2028. This growth necessitates the construction of approximately four new schools annually and calls for 87 additional classrooms in 2027 and 91 in 2028, along with more teachers.
Asino identified six priority investment areas including new capacity, water and sanitation, science and ICT facilities, hostels and accommodation, rehabilitation and safety, and food and learner welfare.
Chief Regional Officer Sem Ntelamo pointed out that rapid urbanization is adding pressure to existing facilities, while aging infrastructure and environmental conditions are causing further deterioration. He stressed the need for investment in new schools and classrooms, particularly in rural areas, as well as the modernization of existing facilities. Ntelamo also suggested that infrastructure development should incorporate renewable energy solutions, water and sanitation facilities, kitchens, and sports facilities.
The regional leadership highlighted the importance of private-sector and development-partner contributions being linked to measurable outcomes and projects that can be monitored through to completion.