Outjo:First Gentleman Lieutenant General (Rtd) Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah has called for collective efforts to tackle the issue of school dropouts, following the revelation that 2,373 learners left school in the Kunene Region during the 2024/2025 academic year.

According to NAMPA, Ndaitwah expressed his concerns during an engagement with boys and girls in Outjo on Friday. He highlighted the national dropout figure of 13,315 learners in the same period and questioned the whereabouts and activities of those who left the education system. Emphasizing the need for attention from parents, educators, communities, and authorities, he urged understanding of the circumstances leading to school dropouts to support affected learners.

The engagement primarily addressed the challenges faced by the boy child, alongside promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence. Sophia Fredericks, the Kunene Regional Director of Education, Arts and Culture, pointed out that learners in child-headed households face significant challenges due to limited parental care and basic necessities, affecting their education and wellbeing.

Dantani Howoseb, a Grade 7 learner at Outjo Primary School, identified issues such as inadequate learning materials, limited parental involvement, peer pressure, bullying, and a lack of positive role models as key challenges for boys' education. He noted that these factors, along with poor academic performance and insufficient academic support, could deter boys from continuing their education.

Ndaitwah reiterated the importance of discipline, mentorship, education, and vocational training in helping young people become responsible citizens and future leaders. His engagement in Outjo concluded his outreach tour in the Kunene Region, which included visits to Opuwo, Kamanjab, and Khorixas. Throughout the tour, he encouraged learners to take responsibility for their futures and urged parents and communities to provide necessary guidance and support.

The initiative aimed to promote dialogue among learners, educators, parents, and community leaders about challenges affecting children and the importance of creating supportive environments for their development.