Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for renewed national commitment to the safety, education, dignity and wellbeing of Namibian children, saying every child should have equal opportunities to learn, develop their talents and pursue their dreams regardless of where they are born.
Nandi-Ndaitwah made the remarks in her message marking the Day of the Namibian Child today, emphasising that protecting and preparing children for the future is a shared responsibility involving government, families, schools, communities, churches and other institutions.
“As President, but also as a mother, I know that there can be no greater responsibility than nurturing, protecting and preparing our children for the future,” she said.
The President said children should not be defined by the circumstances into which they are born, whether they grow up in villages, on farms, informal settlements, towns or cities.
She said every Namibian child deserves the opportunity to access education, healthcare, develop their talents and pursue their aspirations.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said education remains one of the greatest investments in children, but preparing them for the future requires more than access to classrooms.
She emphasised the need to nurture curiosity, encourage critical thinking, equip children with life skills and listen to their views on issues affecting their lives and future.
At the same time, she acknowledged that many children continue to experience violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.
“No child should have to live in fear in the very places where they should feel safest,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said child protection cannot be the responsibility of Government alone, adding that it begins in homes and extends to schools, communities, churches and other institutions.
She said parents, families, teachers, community leaders, civil society and Government all have a responsibility to create environments where children are protected and supported.
Addressing children directly, the President said their dreams, ideas and futures matter.
She encouraged children to study hard, ask questions, believe in themselves and respect their parents, teachers and one another.
She also urged children not to allow their background or current difficulties to determine how far they can go in the future.
Nandi-Ndaitwah further called on adults to raise children in environments characterised by love, encouragement and opportunity rather than fear, rejection and hopelessness.
“The future of Namibia is not something distant. It is growing up in our homes, sitting in our classrooms and playing in our communities today,” she said.
She said the country should continue working towards giving children strong foundations in their identity while providing them with the opportunities to realise their aspirations.
Nandi-Ndaitwah concluded by renewing the national commitment to placing the dignity, safety, education and wellbeing of every child at the centre of Namibia’s development.
She wished all Namibian children a happy Day of the Namibian Child and encouraged them to grow, flourish and pursue their dreams.
Photos: Namibian Presidency
