By William J. Mbangula
OSHAKATI
About 16 pre-school teachers graduated at Oshakati under the Northern Pre-school Teachers Training (NPTT) scheme and the National Institute of Educational Development (NIED). Officiating at the graduation ceremony, the Governor of Oshana Region, Clemens Kashuupulwa, said the introduction of pre-school training came at a time when the Government, through the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, is implementing its guidelines for establishing Early Childhood Development Centres in Namibia. The centres are to be run as commercial enterprises.
The Governor added that the Government in its National Integrated Early Childhood Development Policy has set up a national structure to improve and administer the learning environment of children between 5 and 6 years.
These structures made up of committees are set up at national, regional, constituency and community level. NPTT Manager, Lancy Tjombonde, who has been training teachers for the last six years appreciated the participation of the Government in the efforts of the NGO to impart knowledge to the local community. Pre-school teachers received training in nutrition, teaching methods, theology, health, music and child psychology during the 12-week training course.
Some of the trainers came from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare.