OMHEDI - Oukwanyama queen Martha Kristan Mwadinomho Nelumbu says it makes her happy when learners pass with high marks.

She said a high pass rate can only be achieved when learners put more effort into studying, and urged them to study during their final exams.

Ohamba Nelumbu made these remarks last week while addressing learners from the Sakaria Shikudule Combined School and the Ever Star Private School when they paid a courtesy visit to the palace.

The aim of the visit was for the learners to know more about the queen, as well as familiarise themselves with the palace’s workings.

Nelumbu stressed that learners are the leaders of tomorrow, who will be professional employees and employers in various fields.

“It takes both teachers, community members and parents for a learner to pass. Let’s work together to support learners in our country,” she said.

She added that an educated child is a benefit to all Namibians because that child might become a doctor or a teacher.

Nelumbu further urged learners to listen to and respect their teachers.

“Respect will take you far. Wherever you go, you are required to show respect to others,” she said, and advised learners to refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking.

“I am happy to see you, my children. This makes Ohamba proud. I am your Ohamba, and you must feel free to engage with me,” she beamed.

She also called on other schools to bring their learners to the palace so that they could get to know her.

Also speaking at the event, headman of Omhedi A village Vilho Shimuoshili said it is very important that learners know their traditional leaders.

Learners could not contain their joy, as it was their first time to meet the queen.

“I am surprised to see our Ohamba. The palace is such a beautiful traditional homestead,” said Shilongo Paulus, a grade 11 learner at the Sakaria Shikudule Combined School.

Antonia Hafeni, a grade 10 learner, said she was happy to meet the various traditional leaders of Oukwanyama.

- fhamalwa@nepc.com