KEETMANSHOOP – Management, teachers and learners at Suiderlig Secondary School in Keetmanshoop joined forces last weekend to raise funds.
The funds were aimed at transforming the school’s hostels into spaces that truly support students’ learning experience and personal growth.
Over N$800 000 was raised during a gala fundraising dinner dedicated to the renovation and extension of the hostel facilities.
Delivering the keynote address, Vice President Lucia Witbooi reflected on her time as a learner at the school.
“I am standing here not only as the Vice President of the Republic of Namibia but also as a proud former learner of Suiderlig Secondary School. It was here that I completed my Standard 10 – today’s Grade 12,” she said.
Paying tribute on behalf of the school’s alumni to Maria Kusch, the first principal, Witbooi described the veteran educator as a remarkable woman and exceptional leader.
“She led with distinction at a time when female leadership was rare. She laid a solid foundation for the school when it opened its doors in 1971,” Witbooi noted.
Turning to the purpose of the event, the Vice President said it was not only a celebration of the school’s journey and achievements but also an opportunity to engage with education stakeholders.
She expressed appreciation to all who attended and contributed to the noble cause.
Witbooi shared her desire to see Suiderlig become a top-performing school academically.
“I urge the school leadership, teachers and learners to work hard to improve Suiderlig’s academic ranking – not only for the school but for the region as a whole,” she said.
Addressing potential donors, she stated that their contributions could transform lives.
“With your donations, we are working together to create a hostel our learners can be proud to call home – a space where they can thrive, learn and reach their full potential,” Witbooi remarked.
She expressed profound gratitude for the continued commitment to education and the future of Namibian youth.
Also speaking at the event, Kalahari Circuit Inspector Ryan Assegaai described the gala event as more than an elegant evening.
“This is a call to conscience – a gathering of hearts, minds and hands united in one belief: that every child, regardless of background, deserves a safe place to learn, grow and dream,” he said.
He highlighted that for many learners, particularly those from rural and vulnerable households, the hostel is not a luxury but a lifeline.
“May we leave here not only inspired but committed to uplifting, building and ensuring that Suiderlig’s future remains bright, secure and full of promise,” Assegaai stated.
Established on 14 July 1971, Suiderlig Secondary School is the largest and oldest secondary school in the //Kharas region.
The school currently accommodates over 1 000 learners and employs 59 staff.
This includes teaching, non-teaching and hostel personnel.
In terms of academic performance, Suiderlig ranked fourth in the region for the 2024 Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Advanced Subsidiary Level and seventh for the Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary Level results.
The gala dinner was attended by a host of dignitaries, including beauty queens, retired and serving principals, current and former politicians, clergy, business leaders, parents and learners.