ONGWEDIVA – The Ehafo Combined School in the Ohangwena region has appointed deputy minister of mines and energy Kornelia Shilunga as their new school patron.
The school is situated 18 kilometres northeast of Oshakati in the Endola constituency. It was established in 1966, and currently has a total of 686 learners.
Shilunga said during the familiarisation visit that being a patron reminds her of the responsibility and duty that comes with the title. “I understand I have a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of our school, and
it will be my commitment to fulfil this role with utmost dedication and passion,” she noted.
She said the familiarisation visit served as an eye-opener on what is on the ground, and to meet and know the key stakeholders who act as the glue which holds the school together.
“My role as a patron will extend from the boundaries of the school, as I believe in the power of community engagement and collaboration. I will actively seek opportunities and foster partnerships that will be beneficial to our school and the community at large,” said Shilunga.
She further mentioned that together, they can create a network of support which will empower the learners to excel not only academically, but also in their personal lives, going forward. “Together, we will create an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. Education remains the key to unlocking a prosperous future. Government’s biggest chunk of the budget goes to the education sector, and that indicates the importance of education,” the minister stated.
Shilunga then urged parents to put in all efforts to instil discipline in children to make sure that they understand the importance of going to school, because education starts from home.
“I am committed to working tirelessly to uphold the values and traditions that make our school exceptional,” she continued.
School principal Nabot Shopati highlighted to the patron that the school needs help in terms of infrastructure.
“The library, school hall, school fence, five classrooms and an administration block were all built by the community. The community came together and made all this possible, just to meet the government halfway,” he said.
Shopati observed that he believes that making Shilunga the school patron will bring change, and help with the school’s needs. The school currently needs a community hostel, school hall, smart TVs, boundary wall, pre-primary playground, modern library, sport facilities and a
school bus.
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