Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The Ministry of Education is investigating allegations that Auas Primary School principal Toini Nauyoma is sidelining the Khoekhoegowab language and undermining the cultural identity of the Damara/Nama community.
The probe follows complaints from parents and community members who say the school, located in a predominantly Damara people residential area, Windhoek, is shifting away from its cultural roots by reducing the presence of Khoekhoegowab and promoting other languages, particularly Oshikwanyama.
“The situation is currently under investigation, and the ministry will provide more details once a formal report on the investigation has been issued,” said ministry spokesperson Sam Shino.
Auas Primary School is located in Damara Location in Katutura, which has historically been a residential area for the Damara/Nama community.
Community activist Shaun Gariseb claims the school’s long-standing Khoekhoegowab motto and curriculum have been changed.
He said Khoekhoegowab classes have been removed under Nauyoma’s leadership and replaced with Oshikwanyama, despite the school serving a community where 90% of the learners are from the Damara/Nama background.
“Auas Primary School, which has always been a school for Damara/Nama children, is being turned into a ‘mini’ Angola. The principal is systematically removing Khoekhoegowab and replacing it with Oshikwanyama. This is an attempt to erase our language and culture,” Gariseb said.
Gariseb further alleged that learners from Angola are being prioritised at the school, with some parents reportedly paying high fees for placement.
Additionally, Gariseb has alleged that several teachers, reportedly from Nauyoma’s village, were hired under controversial circumstances.
“We’ve heard that teachers were paid up to N$30 000 to secure their positions. This practice is unfair to local teachers who apply for the same roles,” Gariseb stated.
Nauyoma, when approached for comment, did not dismiss the claims, stating that she is not the appropriate person to respond.
“You are speaking to the wrong person. I think the author is the right one to give you the answers,” Nauyoma said.
