Pohamba Mushelenga
Growing up in Oshigambo, Ekamba A village, my proximity to Oshigambo High School was more than just geographical; it was emotional and aspirational.
I lived merely a stone’s throw from the former girls’ hostel, while my grandfather’s house was only a few steps from the boys’ hostel. Oshigambo High School felt like my second home.
Although I harboured dreams of studying there, my academic performance at the time did not match the school’s rigorous standards. My younger brother, despite his academic prowess, also did not attend. By the time I achieved B+ grades in Standard nine (today’s Grade 11), it was too late for me to transfer. Nevertheless, the school has always held a special place in my heart.
Oshigambo High School has been guided by three exemplary indigenous principals during my formative years and into my adulthood: Timoteus Ndakunda, Reverend Fillipus Henock, and the incumbent Pinehas Ekongo.
Each of these leaders is highly esteemed for their exceptional character and stringent leadership, reflected in the school’s outstanding academic performance and strict no-tolerance policy for misconduct.
Ndakunda, a scientist with extensive knowledge in education and a deep reverence for God, set a strong foundation.
Reverend Henock, a clergyman with degrees in both theology and education, continued this legacy. Ekongo, who is blessed with extraordinary management and leadership skills, has further elevated the school’s standards. His previous leadership roles left a trail of academic excellence, underscoring his capability.
Although Oshigambo High School has long been a beacon of excellence, it has now surpassed its previous high standards. The rapid development and integration of technology have transformed the institution, making it a highly sought-after school.
Parents aspire for their children to attend Oshigambo High School due to its holistic approach to education.
However, despite the concerted efforts of the principal and the school board, some parents threaten this stellar reputation and the solid foundation built by Ekongo by prioritising their interests over the collective good.
I fear (onda tila) that these self-serving parents, who misinterpret the law, might undermine the school’s integrity. The current principal, a no-nonsense individual, is well-versed in the policies and regulations of both ELCIN (the school’s owner) and the Education Acts, latter and former (Act 16 of 2001 and Act 3 of 2020).
He adheres strictly to these regulations, particularly regarding learner suspension, as outlined in Section 23 (1)(3)(4)(a)(b) of the education acts:
“Any suspension from a State school or hostel is considered with the best interests of the child in mind. (3) If the principal of a State school has reason to believe that a learner at the school or accommodated in a hostel of the school commits or has committed an act of misconduct, the principal may, in the prescribed manner, charge the learner with misconduct. (4) The principal may suspend a learner from a State school or hostel or both at any time – (a) before the learner is charged with misconduct under subsection (3) pending investigation; or (b) after the learner is charged with misconduct under subsection (3), pending the conclusion of the disciplinary hearing in terms of subsection (7).”
Section 26 of Act 3 of 2020 does not state that learners should practice their religion on school premises. Imagine coming to practice a different religion in a church school (ELCIN).
Learners who were recently suspended from the hostel likely committed misconduct that endangers the lives of other learners, teachers and other staff members, or harms the proper order and discipline of the school or hostel, as well as the progress of other learners.
Oshigambo High School is in capable hands.
The principal’s firm stance on discipline ensures a conducive learning environment. Let us not allow indiscipline to take root (Inapu ningwa ondobe yomasita).
The entire school management and board deserve commendation for their dedication to maintaining high standards, embodying selflessness for the greater good (Yi ihupula opo oonzi dhi hupe) and ensuring the school’s continuous success.
Civic education for parents is crucial. They must understand the distinction between rights and privileges in a secondary school hostel, especially private hostel rules.
They should recognise that a hostel is not an inherent right, although learners possess certain fundamental entitlements.
Learners are entitled to a safe and secure environment, free from harm or threats; Respect for personal privacy in living spaces and personal belongings;
Access to medical care, nutritious meals, and clean-living conditions. They are entitled to treatment with respect and dignity, free from discrimination, bullying, or harassment. Learners must have study spaces, resources, and academic assistance made available to them. They must have regular communication and contact with family members and guardians; and access to recreational facilities, as well as activities for personal development.
On the other hand, privileges in a secondary school hostel are benefits that can be adjusted based on behaviour and performance.
Longer curfews for well-behaved or senior learners; participation in exclusive events, trips, or extracurricular activities; choice of dormitories or roommates for senior or exemplary learners; access to extra facilities such as a TV room, gym, swimming pool or special study lounges; permission to have visitors under certain conditions; roles such as dormitory representative or student council member; and better access to technology and internet facilities.
Balancing rights and privileges are crucial in a private school hostel setting.
Rights are fundamental and must be upheld, regardless of a learner’s behaviour, while privileges can be earned or revoked, based on adherence to rules and regulations. This balance incentivises learners to maintain good behaviour and academic performance.
*Pohamba Mushelenga is a PhD student in Development Studies and he holds a Master’s Degree in Policy Studies. The opinions expressed in this article are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of his university.