Hertta-Maria Amutenja
In a shocking revelation during the official opening of the Regional Stakeholders Conference in the Hardap Region this week, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation Nathalia /Goagoses, addressed a critical issue plaguing the educational landscape.
With a resounding call for action, /Goagoses highlighted that 11 schools in the region are currently without principals, and an additional 28 lack Heads of Departments.
During her address, /Goagoses emphasized the pivotal role leadership plays in shaping the educational environment. She urged the Regional Director and the education team to fill these vacant positions, stressing the importance of accountability and the need to empower leaders who can drive positive change within the learning community.
The conference also celebrated the improvement in the Namibia Secondary School Certificate – Advanced Subsidiary Level (NSSC – AS) in the Hardap Region. /Goagoses applauded the region’s leap from Position 11 in 2022 to Position five in 2023.
“These achievements reflect the dedication of learners, teachers, principals and community members towards fostering a culture of learning and excellence. This accomplishment not only enhances the reputation of the Region but also opens doors to a brighter future for its residents, learners and teachers (for promotion) as well. Please, keep up the fantastic work, and may this upward trajectory continue to inspire and benefit generations to come,” she said.
However, she also acknowledged a national drop in the NSSCO ranking from Position 11 in 2022 to Position 12 in 2023. Despite this setback, she commended the gradual improvement in the region over the past four years and urged stakeholders to continue their efforts for sustained progress.
The central theme of the conference, “Foundations of Wisdom – Elevating the Focus on Teaching and Learning of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM),” echoed /Goagoses’ call for strategic actions.
/Goagoses further stressed the urgency of focusing on STEM education to align with the recent discoveries and economic developments in the South, such as Oil and Green Hydrogen in ||Kharas and Erongo Regions.
She stressed the need for intentional efforts to transform the education system, ensuring that students are prepared for opportunities arising from these discoveries.
