Inside a small classroom filled with bright, enthusiastic faces, Junior Primary teacher Gelda Waterboer, a teacher at Rogate Primary School in Otjiwarongo, is doing more than just teaching the fundamentals of reading and writing – she is shaping futures. 

Waterboer became a social media sensation when a video of her teaching her learners a song about protecting themselves against sexual predators. 

The passionate teacher explained that she has been singing the song for several years due to a personal experience she had growing up. Thus, the passion to educate children about the topic of private parts. 

Originally from Henties Bay, Waterboer started her teaching career in 2016 as a temporary teacher at Kamwandi Combined School. Her love for children and passion for teaching have never waned, even when financial difficulties forced her to leave her university studies. 

“I always knew teaching was my calling. I couldn’t give up,” she said. 

Now based in Otjiwarongo, she is working towards her Bachelor of Education Honours degree, which she is scheduled to earn in October 2025. She has been dedicated to supporting young learners in Namibia’s public service for nearly a decade. 

Her daily tasks involve teaching, guiding and supporting junior primary learners who are just beginning their school journey. 

“It’s not just about lessons. It’s also about discipline, values and building a child’s confidence,” she said. 

But it’s not without its challenges. She noted that overcrowded classrooms and limited resources make it hard to give each child the attention they need. 

Some learners struggle and need extra help, but the numbers are too high. Still, she finds strength in small victories. 

When a child smiles after understanding something, that’s the best feeling, she said. 

One of her proudest moments came when a child safety awareness song she wrote went viral. 

The video helped raise awareness about keeping kids safe and showed how her role as a teacher extends far beyond the classroom. 

She believes her work is crucial, not just for her students, but also for the education ministry. 

“The foundation I built in these early years helps shape the future of our country,” she said. 

When asked about common complaints that public servants are lazy or unproductive, she disagrees. “Many of us are doing our best, even with limited tools. What people call inefficiency is often a result of the system, not the people.” 

Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a Master’s degree and take on a larger role in education, where she can help shape policies and improve conditions in schools. 

“I want every child to have a fair chance,” she said. 

She noted that there’s a common misconception that people in public institutions are unproductive and inefficient. She doesn’t entirely agree with this view. She said, while there are challenges, many public servants are diligent and dedicated. 

“In education, I see countless teachers who go the extra mile for their learners despite limited resources. What is often mistaken as inefficiency is sometimes a reflection of systemic challenges rather than the commitment of individuals,” she emphasised. 

The teacher intends to work in public service as long as possible, feeling that’s her true calling. 

At the same time, she has a personal goal to keep contributing to education and eventually take on a role where she can have a greater impact on policymaking and system improvement. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na