OMALAMBO – The Minister of Education Dr David Namwandi has urged parents to enforce cultural values that include the use of vernacular languages.
Addressing the belated Heroes Day commemoration at Omalambo village in Eenhana constituency in Ohangwena Region, he said the responsibility of educating children should not only be teachers’ responsibility but should also involve parents.
He urged parents to ensure children develop a love for their traditional food and they speak their mother tongue, irrespective of tribe or ethnicity.
“Rich and educated people are the culprits. These people only speak to their children in English and their children don’t want traditional food. You should know that once your language is forgotten, you are colonised.
“Teach the children our traditional and moral values, don’t let them do what they want. If you allow the child do as he or she pleases, you are bringing up a lion. Teach the children respect for their elders, for their cultures and for themselves,” implored Namwandi.
During the event, Namwandi also congratulated New Era Publication Corporation (NEPC) for introducing the new Oshiwambo newspaper titled Kundana. He urged businesses to advertise with the new newspaper, maintaining that this is a newspaper in a language spoken by many, and it therefore needs support.
“The paper needs to be filled with advertisements, because it is read by the masses, young and old in urban areas and in towns. It is not right to see empty spaces in this paper, people should advertise because it will reach the masses,” said Namwandi.
He urged NEPC to initiate more newspapers in various vernacular languages to ensure all Namibians are able to read news as well as contribute to social issues in the languages that they understand best.
The Heroes Day commemoration was held near Onankali North Combined School, which recently received new and modern structures including classrooms, offices, teachers houses and toilets from the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) Namibia. Namwandi thanked MCA Namibia for building new structures equipped with electricity and air conditioners at Onankali North.
He urged the community to watch out against vandalism, maintaining that government will take action against those found vandalising government property. He said his ministry may consider adding grades 11 and 12 at the school, but the school must first prove itself through its performances.
By Helvy Shaanika