Eugenia Moche
The Bernhard Nordkamp Centre (BNC) in Katutura continues to provide educational support, meals and a safe space for more than 200 vulnerable children, as poverty and unemployment continue to affect many families in the township.
The centre, which was established in 2005 by director MaryBeth Gallagher, initially operated as a soup kitchen under the Church Alliance for Orphans before evolving into an after-school programme offering sports, educational support and counselling.
Gallagher said the programme shifted its focus to education in 2010 after recognising that sport alone would not adequately prepare children for the future.
“They have fun and it is wonderful but we must focus on education,” she said.
The centre currently supports about 200 learners from Grades 1 to 7 each year with English and mathematics lessons, homework assistance, counselling and extracurricular activities.
According to Gallagher, many children attending the centre face challenges including food insecurity, unstable housing and trauma.
“Some of the children we had have dropped out because their families had to relocate,” she said.
Located in Katutura, where many households continue to experience unemployment and overcrowded living conditions, the centre has assisted more than 2 800 children since its establishment by providing meals, educational support and a safe environment after school.
Gallagher said the organisation depends largely on donations, partnerships and volunteers to remain operational.
“Everything we have and use here is donated,” she said.
Volunteer Juliane Hosea said afternoons at the centre are spent helping learners with homework, school projects and one-on-one tutoring.
“Everyone is welcome to join,” she said, adding that no formal qualifications are required to volunteer.
Through a partnership with the Youth Orchestra of Namibia (YONA), children also receive music lessons, while others participate in painting, drama and knitting. Soccer and basketball programmes further promote teamwork and discipline.
Gallagher encouraged more volunteers and donors to support the centre to ensure it can continue providing services to vulnerable children in Katutura.
