RUNDU – Learners at a makeshift government school in Rundu’s Tumweneni informal settlement will soon get a permanent facility.
At the moment, pupils at Siguruguru Junior Primary are being taught in army tents.
The good news was announced by Kavango East governor Bonifatius Wakudumo during a donation of chairs and desks to the school and Mbora Primary School in the Rundu Rural constituency by the prime minister’s office on Tuesday.
“Recon Africa will start drilling a borehole for the school towards the end of the week. I must also inform you that before the end of the year, construction will commence for the 12 classroom blocks, an administration block as well as an ablution block for learners – and this will start before we go for Christmas,’’ the governor said.
Wakudumo indicated a budget of N$20 million was received by the regional council’s directorate of education to improve several schools, from which Siguruguru will benefit.
The classrooms will be furnished.
“In short, I just wanted to inform you of government plans and we need to work together to achieve what we want to achieve in life,’’ he said.
Siguruguru has a population of over 700 learners, who are taught in tents. The school has no water or ablution services - and it was established in 2019 as a makeshift school to cater for learners in the informal settlement, as it is located far from other schools.
Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila commended the teachers and learners for their resilience under harsh conditions.
“The situation of this school is, of course, a very serious concern to us in government. As a government, I will ensure you have proper facilities to learn.”
The premier called upon those who will be entrusted with the implementation of the school construction project to work promptly so that learners receive improved learning conditions; she also commended efforts by Recon Africa for the borehole that is to be drilled, and called upon corporate entities to meet government halfway to ensure social investment in communities.
- jmuyamba@nepc.com.na