Staff Reporter
MINISTER of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to expanding digital education through strategic partnerships, while acknowledging persistent gaps in access to technology, particularly in rural areas.
Steenkamp made these remarks during the inauguration of a new computer laboratory at Petrus !Ganeb Secondary School in Uis on Wednesday, where she delivered the keynote address.
The facility, valued at over N$347,000, was donated by the Swakop Uranium Foundation and includes 20 computers, a printer, and essential networking infrastructure aimed at enhancing digital learning at the school.
Photos: Erongo Regional Council/Contributed
The minister said the initiative forms part of a broader national effort to modernise Namibia’s education system and equip learners with skills required for a digital future.
“Namibia is actively advancing its digital education agenda through strategic international and local partnerships,” she said, highlighting collaboration with the Digital School initiative, which has already piloted digital learning spaces in selected regions.
According to Steenkamp, progress has been recorded in key areas such as teacher training, connectivity, and overall digital readiness in schools.
However, she added that access to technology remains uneven, especially in rural and underserved communities.
“We are fully aware that while the future of education is digital, access to technology remains a challenge. It is not only about connectivity, but also about access to devices and data,” she said.
She emphasised that partnerships between government and the private sector are critical in bridging these gaps and ensuring inclusive access to digital education resources.
The minister said the newly inaugurated computer lab will contribute to improved learning outcomes and empower learners by giving them access to digital tools and opportunities.
The inauguration was attended by Erongo Regional Council Chief Regional Officer Dr Mupenzeni Ntelamo, as well as Swakop Uranium Chief Executive Officer Luo Wei.
Representatives from the Swakop Uranium Foundation reiterated their commitment to investing in education as a key driver of sustainable community development.
Steenkamp added that initiatives such as the Uis computer lab form part of Namibia’s ongoing journey to transform education through consistent and targeted reforms, with digital expansion playing a central role.
