2015-04-07Staff Report 2 ONGWEDIVA - Sigo Gomes, a Grade 8 learner from Cabata Private School is the new junior mayor for Oshakati. Gomes, 15, is deputised by another 15-year-old, Aina Nepaya, who is a pupil of Erundu Secondary School. The Oshakati Junior Council which was inaugurated last week by the mayor of Oshakati, Onesimus Shilunga, consists of nine girls and nine boys who are learners at schools in Oshakati. The objectives of the junior council are to explore leadership potential among the youth, and nurture and equip them with skills on how to effectively deal with public affairs. “In the process we are preparing the youth for the future. It is worth investing in the youth at an early age in order to have leaders with a vision and determination to work in the interest of our society,” elaborated Shilunga The senior mayor welcomed the new council, maintaining that developing the minds of the Namibian youth into exemplary leaders should be the country’s priority. He said Oshakati and the country at large would effectively develop the youth if concerted efforts were made from home, at school and platforms for political grooming. “The junior councillors are not politicians and the exercise does not come with any remuneration – the aim remains solid. We hope to get good future leaders from this assignment,” said Shilunga. He urged the junior council to use their newly acquired platform to positively influence the lives of young people in Oshakati by addressing issues such as alcohol and drug usage, sexual activities, ill discipline and many other unruly behaviour and evils among the youth. He further appealed to teachers and parents to support the junior council at all times. In accepting his task, Gomes maintained he would focus on finding ways and means for other learners to explore new methods of learning. He implored fellow learners to study hard for a better future. The term of the junior council runs for two years. 2015-04-07Staff Report 2
