Julia Kamarenga

The Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, in an attempt to improve the standard of early childhood development centres, donated equipment to facilities in the Epukiro constituency.

Community-based ECD centres received water tanks, tables and chairs to enable a conducive teaching and learning environment. Besides the material support given, the ministry also trains the edu-carers, parents’ committees and board members to boost the state of affairs at the ECD centres.

Chief community liaison officer Dylan Mukoroli said the ministry annually conducts assessments at the centres, which eventually informs the office of the various needs and challenges.

The latest annual national ECD assessment conducted revealed water challenges at most centres, hence the decision to include water tanks. This is to ensure that the centres have clean running water for consumption and hygiene purposes. 

Mukoroli urged parents and children alike to take good care of the teaching and learning materials given to them, and to be appreciative of government’s support to communities, no matter how little.

On his part, the regional councillor for the Epukiro constituency Packy Pakarae expressed his gratitude to the Namibian government for the pivotal role it plays in the development of the Namibian child.

He said ECD centres are a great stepping stone for the guidance and preparation of children, and called on parents and community members to consult with one another, as well as for boards to attend to anything that may hinder the operations of the ECD centres.

Pakarae then cautioned against the misuse of the materials meant to benefit the community, saying those responsible should not use it for their personal benefit, but for the greater good of the entire community.

Mukoroli also emphasised that there is a need for capacitating parents committee members because in the end, they are the ones to hold the edu-carers accountable and ensure the success of the centres.

He, therefore, pledged that his office will send a training plan for all the parents committee members to the constituency, and provide guidance to ensure an understanding and good management of centres.

Furthermore, he called for continuous engagement, which would inform the office of any new developments or emerging areas which need attention.

The chairperson of the Eue Retu ECD centre in Ovinjuru, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, appreciated the support, and reminded those in attendance to maximise their participation and use of the centres.

Vemuura Murangi, an ECD teacher and parent from Okatuuo village, called on fellow parents to be actively involved in their children’s education by visiting the centre to see how their children are engaged, and to monitor their progress.