Lahja Nashuuta
China has provided grant aid of N$343 million towards the construction of education facilities at various rural schools in Namibia, President Nangolo Mbumba revealed recently.
He made the remark at the unveiling ceremony of the Chairman Mao Zedong statue at the Chairman Mao Zedong High School in Otjomuise.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Mbumba indicated that the construction of more facilities is at an advanced stage, and will be handed over to the government through the education ministry this year.
They include two schools in Kavango West, namely Sototwa and Simanya combined schools, two more in Zambezi, namely Lisero school and Mosokotwani combined schoolsas well as hostels, teacher’ accommodation, dining halls, classrooms, computer labs, libraries and ablution facilities, among others. Mbumba said the construction of those facilities signifies a strong education tie between the two countries, and signifies the enduring friendship and collaboration between Namibia and China.
“Namibia’s education fraternity, and indeed the Namibian people at large have greatly benefited from China-Namibia bilateral ties and Chinese aid over the years. We strive to enhance the provision of education in the country, and we are deeply grateful for the continued support from the Chinese friends” the statement reads.
Furthermore, Mbumba noted that the Chinese embassy has played a significant role in maintaining the school as well as sponsoring scholarships for the top ten performers annually with an amount of N$20 000.
“I was also informed that seven students from Chairman Mao Zedong High School are currently studying in China,” he said.