Maria David
LOCATED nearly 150km north-east of Eenhana, the Lazarus Haufiku Combined School was fortunate to receive a donation of IT equipment and a classroom from Swakop Uranium on Friday.
The school was named after the first headman of the village, Lazarus Haufiku, who was believed to be a strong and encouraging man. He was also known for walking nearly 35km carrying water containers.
The school, which caters for learners from Pre-primary to Grade 11, has a learner population of 566 and 26 staff members.
Swakop Uranium Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Qiu Bin, said they had successfully completed both the boundary fence and the computer classroom, with a total donation of N$800,000.
Bin indicated that they believe their donation will greatly enhance the educational environment at Lazarus Haufiku CS.
“With access to modern technology and the internet, learners will have easier access to the outside world, broadening their horizons and better equipping them for the future, contributing to a better Namibia at large,” he said.
Bin noted that the new facility includes 15 computers and a heavy-duty printer, recognising the budgetary constraints that hinder the school’s ability to meet the needs of its learners.
He mentioned that, to date, Swakop Uranium has invested a total of N$3 million in education.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Anna Nghipondoka said Swakop Uranium’s ‘Invest In Education’ campaign is a beacon of hope, having committed over N$3 million in 2024 alone, across the Omaheke, Ohangwena, and Erongo regions.
According to Nghipondoka, this initiative is vital as they work together to address the infrastructural challenges facing schools.
“The support from Swakop Uranium exemplifies what it means to be true friends of education, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their contribution,” she said.
She urged the learners to take their studies seriously, saying that the world is full of opportunities, and they should strive to be the best version of themselves as they are the future of Namibia.
Nghipondoka added that she hopes the assistance will significantly improve the education of the learners.
Oshikunde Constituency Councillor, Lonia Kaishungu, said this was a long-awaited development for the community of Shambada village in the Ohangwena Region, made possible by friends of education who believe in the upliftment of Namibian children.
The event was also attended by the Minister of Mines and Energy, Tom Alweendo, who is the school’s patron and facilitated the donation.
