Erasmus Shalihaxwe
The minister of education, innovation, youth, sport, arts, and culture, Sanet Steenkamp, says the recent merger of two ministries aims to eliminate inefficiencies and improve service delivery by creating a more cohesive and agile institution.
Speaking during a meet-and-greet session with staff in Windhoek on Tuesday, Steenkamp said the merger provides a chance to align various sectors under one unified vision while reducing wastage.
“The merging of the two ministries has created a synergetic framework with an opportunity to eliminate inefficiencies and wastages,” she said.
Steenkamp stressed that successful integration requires deliberate coordination and cooperation across departments and directorates.
“It is essential to acknowledge that successful integration does not happen automatically. We have seen this already with the initial meetings that took place between departments, directorates, and divisions. It requires intentional effort, collaboration, and a commitment to work together,” she said.
She said a clear and unified strategic plan is needed to align the ministry’s vision and ensure the individual mandates of its various directorates are respected.
“No single entity within this ministry can function effectively in isolation. The next few months should result in cross-functional collaboration where expertise from different fields is brought together to create integrated strategies and innovative solutions,” she said.
Steenkamp said the ministry will focus on leveraging new technologies and methodologies to improve services and create opportunities for learners, youth, and students.
She also noted the importance of leadership in setting the tone for how the ministry operates.
“Leaders at all levels must model the behaviours we wish to see—transparency, inclusivity, mentorship, and accountability,” she said.
To support the transition, the ministry will invest in ongoing staff training to ensure employees can adapt to the new structure and contribute to its objectives.
“We will empower our employees to be more effective in their roles and contribute meaningfully to our collective success,” Steenkamp said.
She added that the next five years will be guided by the ministry’s new mandate, the National Development Plan 6 (NDP 6), and the Swapo Manifesto Implementation Plan (SMIP).
