Lahja Nashuuta

Many can attest that due to the hustle and bustle of life, parents do not spend as much time with their children as they would like to. 

Fortunately, the education system provides willing, capable and trained professionals to help shape children into formidable adults while parents concentrate on other responsibilities.

One exemplary individual in this noble profession is Taula Hainghumbi, a passionate teacher at Haimbili Haufiku Secondary School.

The school is in the vibrant town of Eenhana in the Ohangwena region.

With a sense of pride and fulfilment, he reflected on the significant contributions he has made to the welfare and development of numerous young minds in his community.

At 28, he perceives his role within the public service not merely as a job but as a profound calling to serve the community that raised him. 

“Serving the community gives a natural sense of accomplishment,” he expressed with conviction.

His journey into public service began in 2019, following the culmination of his honours degree in Secondary Education (languages) from the University of Namibia’s main campus. 

With his graduation, he recognised an incredible opportunity to give back to his community as a token of appreciation to the government that enabled his generation to achieve higher levels of education. 

“I’m just an educator and head coach of the girls’ soccer team, as well as the assistant coach of the handball team,” he said.

Asked whether it was his dream to work for the government, Haingumbi does not mince his words. 

 He maintained that he has always wanted to work for the Namibian government.

Challenges

Despite the challenges and obstacles inherent in the public education system, hard work overshadows the difficulties. 

“When you work for the government, your job is secure. It all comes down to how serious you are about your work,” he asserted. 

He particularly appreciates the benefits associated with government jobs, such as affordable medical aid and retirement plans, which provide stability to him and his family.

While Hainghumbi does acknowledge that resources in schools can sometimes be limited, he is an ardent believer in the potential of technology to enhance the educational experience. 

He envisions a future where technology is seamlessly integrated into the classroom, making learning more engaging and effective for both educators and students alike.

He said what indeed strengthens his dedication to the public sector is his colleagues’ camaraderie and collective effort. 

“Despite individual achievements at work, it’s the collective accomplishments that matter most in honouring the mission and vision of our government,” he added.

He said they regularly engage in critical self-assessment and analysis of their teaching outcomes, always striving to provide the best education possible to their learners.

Hainghumbi does not shy away from discussing the tangible rewards of public sector employment. 

“The support we receive from the government in various forms cannot go unnoticed. The government actively promotes its employees and provides numerous opportunities for growth through scholarships and bursaries,” he continued.

When reflecting on the effectiveness of public servants, he stressed the pivotal role schools play in preparing children for their future endeavours. 

“It is in schools that individuals are taught and prepared for what lies ahead. Educators spend significant time with learners, instilling discipline, care, transparency and hard work, which are essential for success in both the private and public sectors,” he elaborated.

He took the opportunity to challenge misconceptions about civil servants, urging those who believe that public employees are lazy or ineffective to reconsider their perspectives. 

“Many who hold these opinions base their views on hearsay and have never visited a public office. If ineffectiveness was an issue in the past, things have changed for the better,” he asserted.

Looking ahead, the youthful Hainghumbi envisions the government as not just a workplace but his retirement home. 

He conveyed an eagerness to deepen his expertise in education, expressing a strong interest in pursuing advanced degrees. 

“I will serve for many years to come,” he stated resolutely, embodying the spirit of commitment and dedication that is essential for those who aspire to make a difference in society.

-lnashuuta@gmail.com