KARASBURG – An amount of N$600 million out of N$1 billion has been released by government to the education ministry for purposes of ensuring that nearly 200 schools meet the necessary health protocols to help curb the spread of Covid-19. Informing stakeholders at Karasburg in the //Kharas region last week, Director General of the National Planning Commission, Obeth Kandjoze said so far, 193 schools have been identified and are benefiting. “The purpose of our visits is to check on the preparedness of schools in terms of adhering to health protocols prescribed by the line ministry in terms of dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic as well as assessing developmental issues in the region at large,” Kandjoze said. “This money will be utilised to ensure the proper provision of clean drinking water and ablution facilities for schools as well as for the renovation of dysfunctional educational facilities like schools and hostels in the region.” Kandjoze explained normal procurement procedures would be waived in order to ensure speedy implementation of these much needed projects.

Kandjoze also implored the regional administrators to procure locally manufactured goods and services within the //Kharas region whilst preference should be given to local contractors for construction services. “Without good quality educational facilities and access to basic human health needs, quality education will not be possible,” he said. Kandjoze said central government will remain vigilant in ensuring health protocols are being adhered to by the approximate 800 000 learners and close to 30 000 teachers in the country. He strongly advised education authorities and staff to constantly monitor construction services at facilities through consulting with contractors on bills of quantity as a means to ensure that the desired, prescribed end product will be delivered at the end of the day. Also speaking during the event, education deputy minister Faustina Caley explained that proper hygiene is of utmost importance in the education sector, hence government’s commitment to ensure access to clean drinking water and ablution facilities at all education institutions. “Health education should always start at the bottom level, namely pre-primary stage of a child’s education,” she said. She also said two renovated hostel blocks will be handed over to Lordsville Secondary School in Karasburg very soon, in order to accommodate grade 7and 9 learners that will resume classes today as well as some of the pupils previously lodging at the gutted hostel at Ernst Jagger Combined School. 

– sklukowski@nepc.com.na