Lahja Nashuuta
For Tjarirehua Mupya, teaching is not just a profession, but a calling deeply-rooted in purpose and passion.
A proud son of the Opuwo Urban constituency in the Kunene region, Mupya is committed to educating Namibia’s previously disadvantaged and marginalised children.
Now a seasoned educator, he is based at Coblenz Combined School in the Okakarara constituency under the Grootfontein education circuit.
He began his career in public service in January 2007 at just 22 years old, fresh from the Windhoek College of Education – now the University of Namibia Khomasdal Campus.
Recalling his educational journey, Mupya shared: “I completed my secondary education at Outjo Secondary School, and then proceeded to the teachers training college. I’ve never worked anywhere else. Teaching was my first and only professional path”.
When asked what inspired him to join the public sector, he said: “Frankly, I joined public service to make a positive impact on children’s welfare. The Namibian child deserves quality education. I see myself as an agent for delivering that promise”.
Asked what he enjoys most about working for the government, Mupya said “I value the government’s mission to serve the people. Unlike profit-driven institutions, the public sector focuses on eradicating poverty, reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods. That aligns perfectly with my values,” he said.
As a certified Accounting (grade 8-11) and Entrepreneurship (10-11) teacher, he is actively involved in extracurricular activities, including sport and cultural programmes.
However, like many educators in rural Namibia, he faces daunting challenges.
“Limited teaching and learning resources, especially textbooks, remain a major issue. The number of textbooks often doesn’t match the number of learners in our schools,” he stated.
He cited declining learner commitment and low parental involvement.
“Many pupils are no longer motivated. Some teachers lack professional ethics. We must restore the nobility of the teaching profession,” he said.
Passion drives progress
Despite these challenges, Mupya remains steadfast and enthusiastic about his work.
“The fact that I get to do what I love every day is rewarding. Making a difference in someone’s life and watching learners flourish academically fulfil me. I am a result-driven servant. When my students succeed and compete with the best, I know I’ve done my job,” he stated.
He strongly believes that his skills and experience have been a significant asset to the education ministry.
“The knowledge I gained from college, combined with practical experience over the years, has helped shape many learners into productive citizens. Many of my former students are now contributing to the economy. I take pride in playing a role in poverty eradication and job-creation” Mupya said.
His proudest accomplishments is the academic progression of his learners.
“Seeing my former students enrolled into tertiary institutions or starting their own businesses, especially in the field of entrepreneurship, brings me great joy,” he said.
Mupya received numerous awards for excellence in teaching Accounting and Entrepreneurship.
“Since 2009, I’ve consistently achieved high pass rates, with learners scoring grades A+ to C in both the Junior Secondary Certificate and NSSCO exams,” he remarked.
Asked his views on the public perceptions that government workers are unproductive, he responded firmly: “That narrative needs a serious and strategic conversation. Yes, a few may be in public service for the wrong reasons, but many of us are committed and working hard. A few bad apples should not define the entire system” he maintained.
A vision for the future
As a parting message, Mupya calls for urgent investment in entrepreneurship and innovation, starting at the primary school level.
“We must work towards implementing a vocational curriculum from the early grades. I am personally investing in acquiring relevant skills to help foster innovation and economic self-reliance among Namibians,” he said.
“With support from stakeholders, I envision leading a shift in mindset, encouraging self-reliance, value-addition and, ultimately, economic emancipation,” he stated.
On his wish list, he sees himself remaining in public service for life.
“My identity, values and purpose are deeply aligned with the mission of public service. I don’t see myself doing anything else,” he said.