President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has thanked German goodwill ambassador Wolfgang Fiedler for his extraordinary contribution of nearly N$65 million to Namibian schools over the past 48 years.
Fiedler and his wife, Eva, have supported more than 100 schools across the country, providing classrooms, hostels, textbooks, uniforms and learning materials with a special focus on learners with disabilities.
“His work has reached the most remote areas and helped shape the future of our young learners. Namibia is truly grateful,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
Fiedler, who first visited Namibia as a tourist in 1979, said he was inspired to start his work after seeing the difficult conditions faced by children on farmlands.
“During my second visit to Baumgartsbrunn, I saw the real need and knew we had to act. Since then, my wife and I have devoted our efforts to improving education here,” he said.
Education minister Sanet Steenkamp, who spoke on the sidelines of the courtesy visit at State House on Wednesday, said the Fiedlers directly contributed 95% of the approximately N$65 million invested in schools and have also mobilised additional donations from other sources.
“They have invested in infrastructure, learning materials and special schools, including the Eluwa Special School for visually impaired learners. Their support has been consistent, visiting Namibia up to three times a year to oversee projects,” Steenkamp said.
Indjamba Ndjono, an education employee who has worked closely with Fiedler, described the tangible difference the investments have made.
“Many schools that had no classrooms or hostels now have proper facilities. Learning materials and uniforms are now available, and children’s access to quality education has improved immensely. He even plans to build another hostel at Eenhana,” Ndjono said.
Fiedler’s focus on rural areas and learners with disabilities has had far-reaching effects. “Our goal has always been to support children who face the greatest challenges,” he said.