ONGWEDIVA - Teaching at the Imbili Combined School started off on a sour note in 2023 as some learners are still being taught in a tent.

This is because renovations to a building block whose roof had been blown off by the wind during last year’s rainy season, have not yet begun.

Upon New Era’s visit to the school last week, learners could be observed standing and playing outside during school hours. 

Acting principal Hilka Xuxwa said the learners were outside as there were no classrooms to accommodate them at the moment. However, the grade nine learners are temporarily being taught in a tent donated by a villager, while grades five to eight learners are being taught in a shack.

She explained that the school block whose roof was blown off by the wind accommodated learners of the junior primary phase (pre-grade to grade three), and grade nine. The block also housed a storeroom and the principal’s office.

Xuxwa stressed that teaching and learning will be constantly disrupted due to the current rains, which might force them to suspend classes.

“When it rained, the tent used to be under water. We are suffering,” she lamented.

Xuxwa said despite their pleas, the school has not yet received any form of assistance from the education ministry. There was no assessment done since they reported the matter to the Ohangwena education directorate.

The school, which was established in 1992 and has 430 learners, is faced with the challenges of insufficient teaching equipment such as chairs, tables, chalkboards, textbooks and computers. It is likewise also operating without a secretary.

“This situation has forced some learners to bring their own chairs,” continued Xuxwa. 

Approached for comment, Ohangwena education director Isak Hamatwi said his office is aware of the challenges faced by the school. 

“This week, I will send a company named the Association for Unemployed Artisans to go and assess the situation so that the renovation of the building can be done as soon as possible,” he added.

- fhamalwa@nepc.com.na