Steenkamp inaugurates 20 new classrooms in Ohangwena to fight overcrowding

By: Hertha Ekandjo

Education minister, Sanet Steenkamp, this week inaugurated 20 new classrooms and 20 storerooms across five schools in the Ohangwena region, as part of an N$8 million infrastructure expansion project.

Steenkamp said the initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to expand education facilities, eliminate overcrowding, and ensure that every learner studies in a dignified and supportive environment.

Steenkamp noted that priority is being given to schools with enrolment above 1 700 learners.

As part of this intervention, government will construct additional schools in Kavango East, Khomas, Erongo, Otjozondjupa, and Zambezi during the 2025/26 financial year, an investment exceeding N$198 million.

Highlighting the importance of early childhood learning, Steenkamp said quality facilities for pre-primary and lower primary grades lay the foundation for strong cognitive, social, and emotional development.

“By providing these facilities, we are giving our children a strong start that will support lifelong learning and future success,” she said.

Earlier this month, the minister presented a detailed national decongestion report to the Prime Minister, outlining a five-year strategy to address overcrowding in schools with more than 1 000 learners.

The five beneficiary schools, Shakela Shimbwa, Ohamalila, Mateus Nakatumbe, Ohamaala, and Festus Ikanda Primary Schools, now offer pre-primary to Grade 2 or 3, serving 474 learners and supported by 17 teachers and five support staff.