Jaenique Swartz
The Khomas Regional Council recently hosted a series of engaging educational series competitions aimed at equipping learners in primary school with the necessary skill sets they need for secondary school.
This comes after the high level of failure rate at secondary level.
Khomas education director, Paulus Nghikembua expressed that an investment in knowledge pays the best interest.
“It is without any doubt that you value and understand the impact that platforms such as this one pave the way for a Namibian child, in grooming them to become responsible social beings. Platforms such as this do not only focus on academic growth but also contribute to other important social skills, building on confidence,” he explained.
Nghikembua furthermore said the implementation of strong mathematical practices is important because of how vital the field of mathematics is to various study aspects in life.
“Mathematics is a necessary tool within technology and science and other areas of life in society. It contributes to the development of logical and scientific thinking. We need mathematical knowledge and skills to do everyday tasks and for problem-solving. It provides pleasure and satisfaction when learners solve problems and enjoy number games,” Nghikembua said.
The competitions were aimed at encouraging learners to be taught and tested on the topics they covered, the tests focused on a large array of topics ranging from mathematics to history. Learners were truly engaged in interactive learning where they were surrounded by their peers in a learning-friendly environment.
Smiley Mieze, senior education officer commented on the decision to become as active as possible in the educational sphere for young learners. “We as custodian officials, implemented the Maths Olympiad at Junior Primary phase grades one to three to enable learners to understand and master mathematical concepts. In collaboration with TARL, teachers were trained to assist learners during learning support. This is our second year having a Spelling Bee and Mathematics Olympiad to improve the academic results starting from the foundation.”
Edda Bohn, deputy director at the ministry of education similarly expressed herself on the incorporation and awareness of social science-related topics in the Namibian curriculum: “We need to enable learners to recognise the significance this area of study offers and contribute to the countless job choices one might pursue as a profession. The social sciences carry significance within the curriculum.”
Bohn moreover sang songs of praises to the directorate for taking up such a strong role of involvement in the future of education for the Namibian society as this will impact the nation beyond comprehension.
The directorate says it will continue to foster a positive relationship with the schools in the country to enhance competitiveness and encourage young minds to learn and combat the high failure rate, thus increasing the pass rate for various schools around the country.
-jaeniqueswartz@icloud.com