Okahandja: Peace Corps Namibia on Thursday welcomed 15 new volunteers at a swearing-in ceremony held by the United States of America's Embassy at Okahandja, following their completion of 10 weeks of pre-service training.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the volunteers will commence their two-year service across all 14 regions next week, concentrating on sectors like education, health, and community economic development. They are expected to teach, offer technical assistance, and support community-driven initiatives, including small and medium-sized enterprises, health workshops, and agricultural production.
The volunteers, who will be living with local communities, were trained in local languages to master their skills in local vernaculars such as Khoekhoegowab, Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Rukwangali, Silozi, and Afrikaans. Speaking at the ceremony, Peace Corps Country Director, Mark Wheeler, stated that the first group of volunteers arrived 35 years ago and has since collaborated with organisations and communities throughout Namibia.
"Whether in economic development, health, or education, the Peace Corps continues to support the aspirations of the government and people of Namibia for a peaceful, prosperous, and independent nation. Their service benefits the people of both our nations, in ways big and small," he noted. Wheeler called on the volunteers to commit to promoting world peace and friendship between the USA and Namibia.
"You are part of an important partnership between our two countries that envisions a brighter future for both our peoples. Your commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of your communities will bring this vision to life," he added.
While delivering her keynote address, the Director of Programmes and Quality Assurance in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Ayesha Wentworth, mentioned that over 1,800 volunteers have served Namibia since 1990, emphasising that their contribution to supporting the implementation of the education agenda is highly valuable.
Wentworth stated that the volunteers will serve as teachers, tutors, and mentors in schools throughout the country, aiming to promote mutual understanding and meaningful cultural exchange, a fundamental aspect of the Peace Corps mission. "This is where the real magic happens, where both volunteers and host communities learn from one another, share experiences, and grow together in partnership," she noted.
According to Wentworth, the Peace Corps programme aligns with Namibia's national development, helping the country build a stronger, more resilient educational framework for future generations.