Martin Endjala
The next semester will start for learners at the Oshigambo High School as scheduled following fruitful discussions between the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture and stakeholders.
On Friday, the school board chairperson Simon Iitula announced that due to a lack of payments from the education ministry, the school could not accommodate learners as the second semester was about to start.
He claimed that the region’s education director, Aletta Eises, refused to release the funds to the school.
“Unfortunately, we regret to inform you that due to the Oshikoto region education director’s refusal to release the subsidy funds, we are unable to commence semester two as planned,” he said.
On Sunday, Itula issued another letter informing the parents that the matter had been resolved.
“We acknowledge the inconvenience caused and apologise for any disruption this may have caused to your schedules and plans. Your company and commitment to your children’s education are greatly appreciated,” he said.
Iitula said the matter was resolved after Sanet Steenkamp, the executive director of the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, intervened.
“Ms Steenkamp was instrumental in finding a timely solution, ensuring our learners return to a safe and conducive learning environment,” he said.
Steenkamp said arrangements have been made for the school subsidy payments.
“As the accounting officer, I am aware of the situation, and we have been engaging all stakeholders, including the school principal, and arrangements for payments to the school subsidy have been made,” she said.
She said the pupils returned to school on Sunday to resume the new semester, which started today.
Steenkamp said the ministry is looking into the matter to establish what happened and find an amicable solution in the best interests of the children.
“I wish to herewith request all principles to familiarise themselves with the Education Act 3 of 2020,” she said.
She also called on principles to respect due process for suspension or expulsion of learners.
She stated that the Act should be used as a guiding tool because it is very clear.
“The ministry is looking into similar matters and remains committed to resolving them. Both public and private schools are regulated by the Education Act and it should be followed to the letter. The ministry has a memorandum of understanding with churches and within the MoU, the ministry provides school subsidies for all school hostel learners,” she said
Eises said she hasn’t seen nor received a letter or notice from Iitula.
“You should ask him why the school does not have funds and he must say why I am refusing to release funds,” she said.
Eises could not go into details and said the head office would respond on Monday as per the ministry’s internal regulations.
