RUNDU – President of the All People’s Party Ambrosius Kumbwa stated that if elected into power, his party would reintroduce colleges of education.

He made the statement during the official launch of his party’s manifesto, held at the Dr Romanus Kampungu Secondary School Sports Stadium on Saturday. 

He criticised the country’s education system, claiming it had failed Namibians for 34 years, noting that many learners are still taught under trees and in temporary structures nationwide.

“The teacher-learner ratio policy is not complied with, and there is immoral behaviour among teachers and learners,” he said.

He pledged that if his party were elected into power, it would eliminate schools operating under trees or in tents within three years, and phase out the platoon system within two years to ensure that every student learns in a proper classroom environment.

He added that his party would integrate peace studies into the national curriculum to promote values of justice, unity and peaceful co-existence. 

The Global Peace Index states that such programmes could reduce violence in schools by up to 40%.

The APP leader added that his party would reintroduce specialised Colleges of Education to train teachers effectively, and address the current shortage of qualified educators.

“We will also establish specialised colleges focused on regional needs, such as agriculture in the northeastern regions and the Kunene region. These colleges will enhance skills relevant to regional economic activities,” he said.

In their manifesto, APP also highlighted that approximately 10% of learners in rural areas walk more than five kilometres to school. 

If put in power, the party would ensure that learners in remote areas have access to reliable transportation to and from school.
-Nampa