Ganja:Kunene Kunene Governor Vipuakuje Muharukua has urged learners at Otjinungwa Primary School not to let their remote upbringing or cultural background limit their educational ambitions. He emphasized that children from traditional Himba households could still pursue education, become professionals, and contribute positively to society, regardless of their backgrounds.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Muharukua made these remarks during a visit to the school as part of a week-long joint stakeholder outreach operation in the Kunene Region. He stressed the importance of discipline, commitment, and hard work, advising learners to prioritize their education, stay focused, and cultivate a reading culture. He also encouraged both boys and girls to complete their education before taking on adult responsibilities such as marriage and starting families.
The event also saw Kunene Regional Police Commander, Commissioner Eric Clay, addressing the learners. He highlighted discipline as a crucial element for achieving dreams and becoming responsible citizens. Clay advised the students to respect their teachers, listen to their parents, and maintain focus on their education.
Deputy Regional Director of Education Petrus Shipalanga encouraged parents to send their children to school and emphasized the importance of parental involvement in ensuring that learners receive an education. He announced plans to introduce Grade 8 in 2027 and Grade 9 in 2028 at the school, as part of efforts to expand educational access in remote communities. Shipalanga noted that the Ministry of Education is working to improve educational opportunities and infrastructure in underserved areas.
During the visit, the Office of the Governor donated sanitary pads to the school, while food supplies worth approximately N$24,000, including maize meal, rice, cooking oil, and sugar, were donated to support hostel learners. The school also benefits from an annual contribution of approximately N$30,000 from the local conservancy through its partnership with Wilderness Safaris, contingent on community approval of the annual budget.