[t4b-ticker]
Youth, Youth Corner

Echoes from the chambers

2024-07-172024-07-17By Paheja Siririka
Echoes from the chambers

The sixth session of the Children’s Parliament which was opened by President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday was a resounding success and saw the new speaker, Jane Phiri presiding.

Youth Corner caught up with some representatives to find out how they felt about being part of the session, lessons learned and ways forward. 

Okahandja Secondary School Otjozondjupa region “I am here to advocate for the Namibian child in terms of education. We have a lot to discuss and look at key developmental issues around education and the Namibian child. I am not taking my time here for granted. I will ensure that I use my voice to enhance the message around education.”
Eldorado Secondary School Khomas region “Children also have voices, and we are here to amplify that through the deliberation of certain laws, especially education relations. I am happy to be part of this cohort and will make sure that I play my part. This is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Mariental High School Hardap region “Being part of this sixth session of the Children’s Parliament is an honour because it has exposed us to many opportunities in a short period of time. The mandate is clear as we will robustly advocate for the Namibian child. When it comes to education and issues of poverty eradication, we need to ensure that the Namibian child is put first, and we talk about these issues.”
Deputy Speaker of the sixth Children’s Parliament Friendly Private school Kavango East Region “The importance of the Children’s Parliament is interesting because this is an amazing opportunity for people to tap into each other’s brains and learn. We are here together under one roof for these days. So that is going to be an amazing learning curve. My position allows me to listen and contribute as much as I can.” Photos: Paheja Siririka
Gabriel Taapopi Secondary School Oshana region “The Children’s Parliament is a platform to discuss issues affecting the Namibian child, we are not here for ourselves. The parliament is bigger than we think because at the end of the day, we can influence laws and so many people want this opportunity, but I am part of it, so I am grateful to be here. I am honoured.”
Namib High School Erongo region “We at Namib High School believe in improving the lives of Namibian children through education, meaning we are going to advocate for the changes in the sector and address the existing loopholes. We need to look at implementing programmes that will ensure that every child has a bright future.”
Etoshapoort Junior Secondary School Kunene region “I was overwhelmed with information during the first sessions when we were going through induction but now, I have an idea of how to approach things. I am confident that I will serve my purpose, bring issues to the fore, and ensure that the plight of children, especially where I come from is addressed.”
Speaker of the sixth Children’s Parliament
Dr Lemmer High School
Hardap region
“What I have learned so far is that key issues, especially around resolving conflict. I believe that is something the Namibian child should be acquainted with as early as possible. There are positive and negative aspects of the conflict. We need to master how to manage. We learned about our approach when we stand for motions and issues around advocacy. We need to gather as much information as possible and properly stand up for the African child.”


St Paul’s College Khomas region “Representation is important, and we are here to be the voice of the voiceless. We understand the gravity of the situation faced by the Namibian child and we are here to highlight that in one of the highest offices in the country which is the parliament. We will work hard to look at key issues faced by the Namibian child, especially in the education sector”.