Zebaldt Ngaruka
Despite numerous challenges, the Okamatapati Combined School scooped the second position in the 2023 NSSCO regional ranking in the Otjozondjupa region.
Out of 26 learners who sat for the examination last year, 23 qualified to study at institutions of higher learning whereas 14 qualified for AS level.
The school is situated 100 kilometres east of Okakarara and accommodates 1 000 pupils.
Principal Benfried Uendjipa Kaapehi told New Era that despite many challenges facing the school, the grade 11 performance speaks volumes.
“It’s an excitement to come second in this vast region. We improved a lot, and we are proud of this achievement,” said Kaapehi. The principal gave credit to the teachers and school personnel who availed themselves to work during holidays. “We spent a lot on grade 11 to buy extra books for subjects like Business, Accounting to give learners more information; even Namcol books were very helpful to the learners,” he explained.
Kaapehi added that monitory sponsors from the former school principals of Okamatapati Undjizuva Tjakuva, Zaja Zatjirua, and Kazenakuzeri Zarjirua helped a lot.
“They really supported us, and one can not forget the contribution from the Ongombe Farmers’ Association and parents who were buying food for learners during the holidays. It was a great commitment, and it motivated the learners,” highlighted the principal.
On to the challenges, Kaapehi told this publication that there is a shortage of chairs and desks at one of the oldest schools in Otjozondjupa. “Although we did this well, we do not have a science lab, library, and a computer lab at our school. This makes it difficult for our learners to do experiments and research compared to their counterparts in other schools,” explained the principal. He added that mattresses and beds at the hostel are old.
“We will continue to put more effort. Parents must continue assisting us to reach that goal, and learners must be disciplined to excel in their endeavors,” alluded Kaapehi.
He called on learners to study hard this year and refrain from negative activities as they might hamper their future. In this year’s regional ranking, Otjiwarongo High School came first and Grootfontein Secondary School third.