Mariental: The preservation of Namibia's cultural heritage and the promotion of unity took centre stage at the Mariental Urban Constituency Schools Cultural Festival on Saturday, where leaders urged learners to embrace their identities while pursuing academic excellence.According to Namibia Press Agency, Mariental Urban Constituency Councillor Iswarin Rooi emphasized that culture remains the foundation of a nation's identity and must be preserved for future generations. Quoting a well-known proverb, Rooi said, "A nation without its culture is like a tree without roots. Without roots, no tree can surely stand." She stressed that education should go beyond academic subjects by instilling identity, values, and self-confidence in young people.Rooi reminded learners that Namibia's cultural diversity is a source of strength, urging them to respect every culture while taking pride in their own heritage. "Be proud of who you are. Respect every culture. Never stop dreaming. Your background should never determine y our future," she said. The councillor also described the festival as a platform for nurturing talent, saying learners participating in the event could one day become Namibia's future musicians, dancers, actors, poets, and cultural ambassadors.Mariental Municipality Councillor William Minnie highlighted that culture encompasses more than traditional attire and performances, describing it as the collective memory of a people. "Schools are not merely institutions where children learn mathematics, science, or English. They are places where character is formed, values are cultivated, citizenship is developed, and identity is strengthened," Minnie said. He urged schools to continue promoting indigenous languages, traditional knowledge, and Namibia's history, saying cultural preservation is both an educational and national responsibility.Minnie also called for learners to be taught about the 1904-1908 genocide in schools. "Our schools must teach this history honestly and responsibly - not to divide, but to educa te; not to encourage resentment, but to strengthen reconciliation founded upon truth," he said. The one-day festival brings together schools from across the Mariental Urban Constituency and features traditional dance, music, poetry, storytelling, and other cultural performances that celebrate Namibia's diverse heritage. It is hosted by the Hardap Directorate of Education.