2006-03-09Staff Report 2 "By Petronella Sibeene WINDHOEK A three-member Norwegian delegation on a countrywide tour, this week paid a courtesy call on Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Theo-Ben Gurirab where the group expressed interest in starting a cultural project. The planned cultural project would be established in the Erongo Region. The President of Hedmark County Council, Siri Austeng during their visit to the Speaker's office indicated that of all the areas visited in the country, they have identified Erongo region as a potential area for development especially in matters related to culture. This delegation identified the multi-purpose youth centre at Usakos as a potential place where cultural activities can be carried out. ""We want Erongo local authorities to get involved in the cultural education of their children. ""The idea is to discuss with the authorities and see how the idea can fit in,"" she stated. So far and through this venture, about 23 schools in South Namibia are involved in similar projects. Under this, parents are encouraged to teach school going children about culture especially those in boarding schools. ""This is an opportunity for parents to directly get involved in the education of their children,"" added Managing Director of Namibia Association of Norway Svein ÃÆ'Æ'Æ'ÃÆ''¹Ã...""rsnes. Before the end of the year, the group intends to conduct a pilot study and the project is expected to kick-start early 2007. Gurirab informed the visiting delegation that Usakos was once a cosmopolitan town in the country. ""During those years, the development of Namibia could be seen through the eyes of Usakos and thus the introduction of such a project at the town is likely to bring it back to its original roots,"" Gurirab said. Further, working with parents and local authorities, Gurirab says, will reduce the frustration of bureaucracy. In 1980, the Namibia Association of Norway (NAMAs) was founded and since then, it has supported the Namibian people in their struggle for democratic development, respect for human rights, as well as economical and social equality in the country. The association focuses on development assistance in Namibia, strengthening cultural and friendly ties between Norway and Namibia among others." 2006-03-09Staff Report 2
