Staff Reporter
THE Government of the People’s Republic of China, through the Agency for International Economic Cooperation, recently donated educational facilities to Satotwa and Simanya Combined Schools in the Kavango West Region.
The Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Ester Anna Nghipondoka, revealed that the donated infrastructure includes hostels, teachers’ houses, administration blocks, classrooms, ablution facilities, libraries, and beds. She emphasised that the donation will undoubtedly transform the educational landscape for learners and educators alike.
“We believe that conducive educational environments are crucial for enhancing teaching and learning, and for achieving better educational outcomes for our children. The importance of accommodation facilities, such as hostels and teachers’ houses, cannot be overstated,” she added.
Nghipondoka highlighted that the new infrastructure will address key challenges related to access and retention.
“No longer will our learners have to endure long, exhausting journeys to and from school, and our teachers will find greater stability and support in their roles. This, in turn, will reduce dropout rates and enhance teacher retention—factors that are vital for a thriving education system,” the minister said.
Nghipondoka emphasised that educational infrastructure remains one of the ministry’s main challenges, but they are committed to ensuring the provision of accessible, equitable, and inclusive quality education.
“Our Accelerated Infrastructure Development Plan (AIDeP) is a testament to this commitment. This plan identifies the immediate infrastructural needs required to maintain low learner-to-teacher ratios, reduce travel distances, and address the need for hostels, WASH facilities, and IT infrastructure. The AIDeP has been integrated into the 2022 National Conference on Education Implementation Plan (NCE-IP), which will guide our efforts from 2023 to 2030. This plan is crucial in driving educational transformation in Namibia, and infrastructure development is one of its key levers of change,” she explained.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, emphasising that their support is invaluable as Namibia works towards socio-economic development and a brighter future for all.
“The bond between Namibia and China has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1960s when China stood firmly with us in our struggle for independence. This friendship has blossomed over the past 34 years, marked by mutual support and a shared vision for progress. As we acknowledge this significant contribution today, we also honour the enduring spirit of South-South cooperation, a principle that guides our collaborative efforts,” Nghipondoka added.
