Windhoek: Ruguru Investment CC on Monday handed over a brand-new classroom block worth over N.dollars 1 million to Kamina Junior Primary School in Kavango West, providing a permanent learning space for 110 learners from pre-primary to Grade 3 after years of makeshift classes in tents.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the school principal Homateni Matheus expressed that the new block resolves a long-standing issue with temporary structures at the 47-year-old school. He highlighted that the learners had been educated in tents under conditions that were not suitable for teaching and learning. The donation has moved the learners into a more appropriate learning environment, reducing overcrowding and restoring hope among parents in the nearby communities of Kakuro, Shiurungu, and Nkurenkuru.

Matheus acknowledged that despite the new classroom block, the school, which serves 110 learners with five staff members, still faces challenges such as the lack of proper ablution facilities, electrification of the new block, and incomplete fencing. However, he emphasized that the classroom crisis has been resolved thanks to Ruguru Investment. He urged the teaching staff to enhance their efforts and cautioned against complacency and absenteeism to boost learner performance.

Elia Kamati, vice chairperson of Ruguru Investment, stated that the construction of the two-classroom block, storeroom, and minor renovations amounted to N.dollars 1.3 million. The funding was sourced from marine resources income allocated to the company through a fishing quota. Kamati underscored that the donation was a commitment and sacrifice made out of love for Namibian children, not merely from surplus funds.

Since 2020, Ruguru Investment has invested approximately N.dollars 2.5 million in corporate social responsibility initiatives, including support for San communities, provision of school uniforms, fencing materials, drilling of a borehole, and other social interventions in the region. Kamati remarked that investing in education is pivotal for national progress, as it provides children with safe and conducive learning environments to enhance educational outcomes.

Ester Kalondo, Kavango West Regional Education Deputy Director, acknowledged the persistent challenge of classroom shortages and overcrowding in the region, highlighting the importance of private sector partnerships. She remarked that government efforts alone cannot address these gaps swiftly, making public-private partnerships crucial. Kalondo praised the donation for restoring dignity to learners and providing teachers with a suitable teaching space, urging the school community to maintain the new infrastructure diligently.