Lahja Nashuuta 

Melanie Goamus, principal of Arandis Primary School in the Erongo region, said her choice to enter public service was shaped by her upbringing and her father’s commitment to education. 

It is often said that people are shaped by their environment, and this is true for Goamus. She was raised in a family where public service was common, with most relatives working for the State. As a result, a career in government was a natural and immediate goal for her. 

“I chose to serve in the public service following the advice and example of my father. He was a veteran teacher who shaped and guided many of us towards a career in education rather than other professions,” Goamus said. 

Born and raised in Khorixas, Goamus graduated from Outjo Secondary School 27 years ago. She went on to earn qualifications in Accounting and Education from the University of Namibia. 

Additionally, she has a Basic Education Diploma from Windhoek College of Education. 

Public service 

Goamus started her career in public service on 25 November 2002, totalling 24 years of experience in the education sector. 

“I consider myself a seasoned educational practitioner, having worked within the education system from early childhood development through to my role as a teacher. I have never worked outside the education sector within the public service,” she said. 

She is currently the principal of Arandis Primary School in the Swakopmund circuit, Erongo region. Goamus has been in this role for just over four years. 

“Although I am still a relatively new principal, I am ambitious and goal oriented. Through teamwork and dedication, we have begun to achieve gradual but meaningful progress,” she noted. 

Goamus credited her professional training for providing her with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 

“The training system produces well-rounded educators with strong teaching abilities, learner engagement strategies, administrative competence, leadership skills, and effective classroom management. I further enhanced my qualifications through studies with North-West University,” she said. 

Responsibilities and leadership role 

As the school principal, Goamus is responsible for ensuring the school complies with national policies, regulations, and standards agreed upon. She is accountable for academic results, financial oversight, and overall governance. 

Her duties also include providing strategic leadership, supervising staff, and offering professional support to maintain quality teaching and ongoing professional growth. She manages the effective allocation of human and material resources to meet the school’s operational and educational needs. 

Additionally, Goamus handles infrastructure issues, including daily maintenance of buildings, electrical systems, and underground plumbing. Much of the infrastructure has aged, leading to frequent repairs despite limited funding. 

Challenges 

Like many school leaders, Goamus encounters substantial challenges, especially regarding resources. 

“There is nothing more frustrating than planning to implement a project and then realising that the resources required for its successful completion are insufficient,” she said. 

She recognised that the biggest challenges were financial constraints and insufficient support for learners facing learning difficulties. 

“The curriculum largely caters to average and above-average learners, while minimal support is provided for below-average learners. There is a need for the ministry to identify and implement inclusive educational approaches that accommodate learners of all abilities,” Goamus explained. 

She also highlighted a clear gap between assessment practices at senior primary and junior secondary levels, which frequently impacts learners’ transition between these stages. 

Rewards 

Despite the challenges, Goamus stated that her most fulfilling experience comes from making a difference in learners’ lives. 

“My greatest satisfaction comes from transferring knowledge, exposing learners to new environments, and guiding them throughout their school journey. It is rewarding to see former learners become responsible citizens who succeed in life,” she said. 

She mentioned that she regularly encourages students by reminding them that academic failure does not mean overall failure in life. “Seeing this message come to life in the journeys of former learners gives me immense fulfilment as an educator,” she said. Goamus also values strong relationships with her teaching staff. 

“I prioritise responding promptly to teachers’ work-related needs and supporting them during personal challenges. Celebrating achievements together, grooming teachers into effective classroom leaders, and working collaboratively are very fulfilling. I intentionally expose them to challenging situations to bring out their best,” she said. 

Goamus brings extensive experience to public education. She taught for nine years at Kolin Foundation Secondary School, served as head of department at Swakopmund Secondary School for eight years, and has been a school principal for the last four years. 

“My contribution to the public service lies in educating and transforming individuals who can contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s sustainability and to their own personal development,” she said. 

Professional achievements 

Goamus’s notable accomplishment s include launching annual cultural events and award ceremonies to enhance morale and acknowledge learner’s achievements. 

She also spearheaded a review of the school’s value statements to foster shared ownership among learners and staff. Additional milestones include interpreting and aligning the school logo symbols with the school colors and introducing a new uniform to strengthen school identity and pride. 

When asked about her future in public service, Goamus expressed her intention to serve until retirement. “I plan to serve the remaining nine years until I reach retirement age. However, the postgraduate qualifications I am currently pursuing will ensure that I remain connected to education. Even if I were to leave the public service, it would still be in an educational capacity, as my bond with teaching is deeply rooted and not easily separated,” she concluded. 

-lnashuuta@nepc.com.na