Allexer Namundjembo
The construction of Ndoro Memorial Combined School’s hostel, which began in 2016, remains incomplete, leaving students without adequate accommodation eight years later.
The school accommodates pupils from pre-primary to Grade 11, living at Omega 3 and nearby villages in Bwabwata National Park.
The school lacks proper accommodation for learners, with the hostel expected to address this issue.
During a visit by the Windhoek Observer last month, learners, especially Grades 9 and 11, were seen camping in the open while preparing for their national exams.
The school principal, Sipopo Linus, said the construction of the school’s hostel started in 2016 but faced delays in 2021 due to Covid-19.
“The project has been delayed due to the pandemic,” he said.
Despite the near-completion of the buildings, the school and new hostel lack power connections and access to clean water.
“We face water challenges and do not have electricity. The water here, due to the mineral belt, is not suitable for human consumption,” Linus said.
Simon Sivayu, a local villager, confirmed that the school shares a nearby water tap with the community, but the water is unsafe.
“If I give you water to drink now, you wouldn’t reach Divundu without a stomach ache,” he said, explaining that young children are especially vulnerable and parents must buy water for babies.
Despite its location within Bwabwata National Park, the school does not have a fence, exposing the children to wildlife.
Linus said the absence of a fence poses safety concerns for the students.
“The school being in a national park without a fence puts both our safety and that of the learners at risk, especially now that they are camping for their exams,” he said.
The spokesperson for the National Africa Students Association, Muzani Muzani, has expressed concern over the delayed construction of the hostel, emphasising their commitment to promoting a conducive learning environment.
He described the situation as “unacceptable.”
According to him, this demonstrated neglect by both the government and contractors in handling key capital projects.
“This matter shows a significant lapse, and we must advocate for students’ welfare,” Muzani said.
Zambezi deputy director for education Nora Maemeko-Munembo acknowledged awareness of the hostel’s construction but noted it is managed by the ministry, not the region.
Maemeko-Munembo hung up the phone before the journalist could ask her further questions.
The Windhoek Observer wanted to know why the pupils were not allowed to move into the buildings and what arrangements were made to ensure the safety of the children from wildlife.
Education executive director Sanet Steenkamp stated she was unaware of the specific school but confirmed extensive construction work in the Zambezi and Kavango regions.
“We focus on regional needs provided to us. I need to consult the regional director for details on this school. We need the school’s profile to plan accordingly,” she said.
Steenkamp emphasised that it is concerning for a hostel to remain incomplete for eight years and assured that the ministry would engage with the region.
“We will determine if this is a capital or regional project, assess the reasons for the delay, and plan to complete it,” she added.
