Rudolf Gaiseb
Education minister Sanet Steenkamp has taken aim at irregular recruitment practices within her ministry, which have become a hive for nepotism, favouritism and outright corruption, while meritocracy is a distant secondary consideration.
Steenkamp said the appointment of teachers must be transparent, timely, and merit-based.
This is after the ministry has been inundated with reports of unprocedural appointments of teachers across the nation.
Steenkamp said that this manipulation of processes harms learners, families and unemployed graduates. “Allegations circulating among unemployed teachers regarding the selling of positions, favouritism, or undue influence are deeply troubling,” she said.
Officials are reportedly involved in the solicitation and acceptance of money, favours and influence in appointments.
On Wednesday, Steenkamp said they are investigating and that those caught in these serious misconduct and criminal acts will undergo disciplinary action, dismissal, and referral to law-enforcement. Additionally, the minister urged that delays in procurement, including unnecessary bureaucracy, contribute to harming the broader society. The education ministry shapes the future of the Namibian nation, from the classroom to the sports field, from cultural heritage to youth empowerment.
She highlighted that this responsibility demands integrity, urgency and unity of purpose.
Regional leadership was instructed to ensure appointment processes are properly documented and auditable.
To communicate timelines clearly and honestly.
Act quickly on complaints and de-escalate them without fear or favour. The ministry highlighted there will be zero tolerance for corruption, nepotism and bribery in appointments.
Moreover, infighting and entitlement attitudes were also reported. These attitudes derail the ministry’s purpose and objectives, she said. Steenkamp emphasised that public office is not a personal entitlement but a public trust. “Unethical conduct, whether in offices, regions, or SOEs, erodes confidence and undermines our mission,” she said.
