Unemployment, mental health issues, gender-based violence and lack of male role models for young boys in the community of Outapi enticed Pandeni Ekandjo to create a safe space for the boy child to be guided and empowered.
Through his foundation, the African Boy Child Foundation, the full-time teacher provides programmes tailored to the needs and challenges that young boys face daily in their lives.
The young educator told Youth Corner the boy child in his community endures faceted challenges, such as education disparities.
“Unemployment and underemployment are another problem. They are struggling to find stable employment opportunities, leading to high rates of unemployment and underemployment in the region,” he shared.
He added that mental health issues also persist, where boys and men in Outapi experience mental health challenges, but lack access to adequate mental health services and support.
“We have gender-based violence, where men and boys are victims of gender-based violence, including physical abuse, emotional abuse and sexual violence. Additionally, there are lack of role models: boys in Outapi lack positive male role models to guide them towards healthy lifestyle development,” he highlighted.
Another issue he shed light on was substance abuse, where alcoholism is a significant issue amongst men in Outapi, leading to various social and health problems.
The foundation that is geared towards uplifting the boy child recently hosted the ‘Boys Saturday’ event in collaboration with the Boy Child Character Foundation (BCCF) at the Multipurpose Resource Youth Centre in Outapi.
He said the initiative is aimed at empowering and educating 20 young boys from the community on essential life skills, financial literacy and personal development.
“The workshops, led by BCCF founders, were interactive and informative. The boys learned about budgeting, saving and responsible spending skills crucial for their future independence. Personal development topics included self-esteem building and goal- setting,” stated the energetic Ekandjo.
The financial literacy segment covered fundamental concept, such as budgeting, saving and understanding the value of money.
Participants learned practical skills that they could apply in their daily lives to better manage finances.
“Recognising the importance of mental well-being, this workshop addressed topics such as stress management and emotional intelligence. The facilitators emphasised the significance of seeking help when needed, and maintaining a healthy mindset,” he added.
His multifaceted contributions as an educator, artist, entrepreneur and community leader highlight his dedication to uplifting and empowering individuals within his community through education, culture, entrepreneurship and social initiatives.
He said as an English teacher, he assists children and families with English language skills.
“I also provide adult literacy programmes to help improve literacy levels within the community. My background includes studying for a Bachelor of English at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), although I am unable to complete my final semester due to financial constraints,” he stated.
-psiririka@nepc.com.na