Zebaldt Ngaruka
OZOMBOUVAPA – In efforts to motivate their learners to do well academically, the Epukiro Secondary School in the Omaheke region recently awarded its best performers with prizes, compliments of community members, including peer groups.
The prizes comprised cash, airtime vouchers, tracksuits, goats and sheep, school bags and dictionaries, amongst others. Situated in the Omaueuozonjanda settlement of the Epukiro constituency, the school is ranked first in both the 2023 NSSCAS and NSSCO national examinations in the region.
It is the only secondary school in the constituency.
Amongst the awards given, Kamuro Uetuesapi scooped the award for the best performance in grade 8, whereas the top grade 9 performer was Katjiteo Tjikendomuini.
The grade 10 accolade went to Mbatara Mbitjita.
The grade 11 top honour was given to Nguherimo Ndjipua, who scored 36 points overall, while Tjatindi Undjakuje’s 30 points earned her the best grade 12 accolade.
The grades 11 and 12 teachers were also recognised for their efforts.
Jatieuavi Marenga was the best-performing teacher in the entrepreneurship subject with a 100% pass mark for all his learners, whereas Ngundjizuva Christo Makari scooped the best teacher gong in geography, also with a 100% pass mark.
Speaking at the event, Epukiro SS principal Big Man Uanivi said the core mandate of the ceremony is to boost the morale and appreciate the tremendous performance of the deserving learners and teachers, who excelled during the 2023 NSSCAS and NSSCO Level internal and external examinations.
“We always try our best to do well academically, despite challenges at our school,” he noted.
Uanivi said the school is located in a remote area, and comprises many marginalised learners.
“We encounter occasional inevitable shortcomings such as water and electricity, which hinder the smooth operation of the school,” the principal stated.
However, Uanivi added that his school ensured that education was executed at the optimum level.
“Despite those challenges, we buckled up and produced the best results in the region,” he smiled.
The school also needs a library and museum, where learners can encounter informal education.
They unapologetically prioritised teaching and learning through continuous professional developmental workshops for teachers, co-curricular activities such as debates, and extramural activities for the learners.
“We also held motivational talks, vacation schools where experts are invited to share their expertise, and strict monitoring of undertakings on the school premises,” continued Uanivi.
These efforts, the principal emphasised, have produced resilient, determined and accountable teachers and learners, who received awards in various categories. Also speaking at the awards ceremony, chairperson of the Omaheke Regional Council Ignatius Kariseb said success in education requires more than attending classes and completing assignments.
“It demands dedication, perseverance and a burning desire to excel. You must approach each lesson as an opportunity to broaden your horizon, and every challenge gives a chance to grow stronger,” he observed.
The chairperson also advised learners to embrace effective study habits, organise time wisely, and seek help when needed so as to pass. “Don’t view exams as obstacles, but as an assessment of your progress. Learn from your mistakesm, and use them as stepping stones toward improvement,” Kariseb motivated.
He also reminded learners that discipline is the backbone of academic success, and that it is a guide through the toughest moments. “Ensure that you stay on the path towards your goals,” he urged. The chairperson told the learners that education is not just about grades but also about gaining skills, developing critical thinking powers and becoming a lifelong learner.
“So, stay curious, challenge yourself, and find joy in pursuit of knowledge. Seize every opportunity to learn, grow and make a positive impact because your efforts today will pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future,” Kariseb said.
Out of 56 learners who sat for AS examinations last year, 49 qualified for tertiary institutions.
In 2022, only 20 grade 11 learners qualified for AS, while 39 qualified for AS in 2023.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com