Windhoek: The issue of over 15,000 unemployed qualified teachers seeking employment was addressed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, highlighting the challenge of absorbing all into the public service. During a courtesy call at State House, representatives of these teachers engaged with the president following a prior discussion with Minister of Education, Sanet Steenkamp.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Ministry of Education instructed the teachers to submit their credentials for verification before any employment decisions could be made. The chairperson of the unemployed teachers, Joyce Liswaniso, conveyed the distress faced by the graduates, citing widespread depression and emotional stress due to prolonged unemployment.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed the necessity of completing the verification process to chart a path forward, acknowledging that while not all teachers can be employed by the government, a significant number could be absorbed based on industry demand. She reinforced the need for the ministry's swift action to address the issue.

Liswaniso expressed concerns about the current interview process, criticizing it for nepotism and imposing financial burdens on candidates who must travel extensively for interviews. She advocated for the elimination of interviews, suggesting instead the introduction of dual teaching sessions and a national teacher database to ensure fair placements and reduce corruption.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged the proposals and encouraged the ministry to consider them, recognizing their potential to address the employment challenges faced by qualified teachers.