OUTJO – Outjo Secondary School principal Usko Shivute has pleaded for the participation of the community, especially parents, in the education process of the young and contributing to their development.
He said schools must intervene through various ministerial policies, particularly culture, to signify the way forward in terms of accommodating everyone.
Shivute said: “It seems that most learners are not exposed to much of the cultural activities at home – and as an institution, we are there to advocate for education; we need to make use of these platforms for learners to get acquainted”.
He said this during the recent Sanlam My Culture My Life roadshow, which put the Ovahimba culture in the spotlight.
The roadshow was the sixth edition by the financial services provider that forms part of its corporate social investment by educating and creating awareness around the culture of school-going children. The project aims to promote and preserve the diverse Namibian culture among the youth.
Shivute noted stakeholders like Sanlam are key role players in education, signifying their crucial role in the partnerships between the public and private sectors.
“The role that Sanlam has played with its culture initiative revives some of the ideas that we, as a nation, need to bind. We need to be tolerant of one another’s cultures at the same time, and I always do this with my learners. If we fail to advocate for unity in this country, then it is a failure for the future generation,” he stated.
Outjo Secondary School head girl Leandri Karunga appreciates initiatives like that of Sanlam, which promotes cultural activities and information sharing, especially since she recently learned about the differences within the Ovahimba people.
“We have a lot of tribalists in this country. I believe that now that we are aware of the Ovahimba people, we will be more tolerant and accepting. I learned that the Ovahimba people are important and should be respected, hence why they appreciate their roots – something every Namibia should be aware of,” said the 11th grader.
Her fellow learner Michael Nghitaunapo feels the interventions by the private sector on such societal issues of culture is a good way of harmonising people.
“It is important to share culture; it tells us who we are and where we come from. It gives us a sense of identification – a sense of being. I got to learn about the holy fire; hence, it is important for us to promote culture because people worldwide will recognise us as something special and unique,” added Nghitaunapo.
Namibia has adopted an inclusive education policy, highlighting the importance of cultural and linguistic diversity. Although the situation on the ground is sketchy regarding the implementation and inclusiveness of these aspects in the sector, the policy encourages educators to adapt the curriculum and include content that reflects the cultural background of their learners.
Sanlam’s intervention includes the involvement of local artists, ideally from those respective regions, to be the educators and engage with learners.
During this sixth edition of the Sanlam roadshow, Kunene-born duo O.com, comprising Samuel Mbalundu, stage name Junox and Muakambithatji Katetu, professionally known as Wizzen, as well as Outjo-born Tjeripo Kahimunu, popularly known as Himba Boi, were the artists tasked with the mission of educating learners about the Ovahimba culture. Sanlam’s corporate social investment has gone on to benefit more than 20 artists across the country, giving them a platform and opportunity to educate young Namibians about their culture, truly living up to the adage-old that charity does begin at home.
- psiririka@nepc.com.na