KEETMANSHOOP - //Kharas governor Aletha Frederick wants the education playing field levelled so that each pupil is given a fair chance to succeed.
She also underscored the importance of providing children with a supportive and inclusive learning environment where they can embrace curiosity, pursue excellence, and develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
Frederick was speaking in Keetmanshoop during the official opening of the 2024 school year earlier this week where she emphasised the importance of stakeholder collaboration in achieving success within the education triangle, of teachers, learners, and parents.
“By ensuring equal access to education, we can help level the playing field and provide a fair chance for all learners to succeed… It is our collective responsibility to create a nurturing space that ensures every learner has a fair chance to access quality education, free from disruptive circumstances,” she said. Her comments follow the announcement of the national examinations results for last year, in which the //Kharas came 12 out of 14 regions in the 2023 national rankings for Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Advanced Subsidiary (NSSCAS) level, dropping from position 10 in 2022.
A total of 350 pupils qualified for the AS level this year.
Frederick also reminded her audience not to underestimate the impact of open communication in addressing challenging situations that may impede the teaching and learning process.
“A balanced and collaborative relationship among these three components of the triangle is essential for successful educational outcomes,” she said.
The governor advised that, by leveraging the strengths of each stakeholder group and promoting active collaboration, the team can create an educational ecosystem that nurtures holistic development and academic excellence.
“Together, let us champion the cause of education, recognising it as the key to unlocking opportunities and shaping a brighter future for all,” said Frederick.
Addressing staff members of the //Kharas regional education directorate, acting chief regional officer (CRO), Benedictus Diergaardt expressed his wish that 2024 must be filled with prosperity, joy, and countless growth opportunities.
“Together we have achieved remarkable success by securing the third position nationwide in the Namibian Senior Certificate Ordinary (NSSCO) examinations for 2023 after ending in second position in 2022. The 2024 academic year is a blank canvas waiting for us to paint with innovation, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to the growth and development of our children,” said Diergaardt.
He urged the staff members to let collaboration be their guiding principle when working together to overcome challenges and create a nurturing education ecosystem.
“I have full confidence that with your commitment, passion, expertise and collective spirit, we will not only meet the challenges of the upcoming academic year but also surpass our expectations,” the acting CRO emphasised.
He also requested the staff to unite in their pursuit of excellence, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
Recently appointed //Kharas regional education director, Jesmine Magerman expressed confidence that she was surrounded by a team of competent, dedicated, and visionary co-workers who will assist her and the regional management committee to achieve the objectives, goals, and vision of the education ministry.
“My request to you all is just to make sure you operate within the sphere of your duty sheets and job description,” she said.
Magerman also urged staff to stand together or risk failing in their duties and consequently having learners fail.
- sklukowski@nepc.com.na