By: Loise Shiimi
Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC), through its Rural Schools Projects initiative, has partnered with the MVA Fund to construct eight (8) new classrooms at Shaanika Nashilongo Senior Secondary School in Omusati Region.
This initiative aims to alleviate overcrowding and expand access to quality education.
The infrastructure, valued at N$2 million, was officially handed over on Friday.
The MTC Rural Schools Project was launched in 2019 with the goal of supporting the government’s efforts to enhance education infrastructure by constructing and renovating classroom facilities, particularly in rural areas.
Tim Ekandjo, Chief Corporate, Branding, Marketing, and Sustainability Officer at MTC, discussed the challenges the school faced previously, noting overcrowded classrooms as one of the main challenges.
“The shortage of teaching space also limited the school’s ability to admit more students, despite the availability of hostel accommodation. With the addition of these eight classrooms, we anticipate an increase in enrollment from 879 to over 1,000, allowing additional learners to access education in a more conducive environment,” he explained.
Ekandjo also reflected on the broader impact of the projects across the country.
“Since 2020, we have established classrooms all over Namibia, from Kunene to Kavango West, Oshana, Karas, Hardap, Zambezi, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Kavango East, and Omaheke. To date, we are pleased to extend our efforts to the Omusati Region with the handover of these eight classrooms at Shaanika Nashilongo,” he stated.
He further noted that the program has delivered 61 classrooms, seven storerooms, one computer laboratory, and one ablution facility, totalling an investment of N$18 million. Two more handovers are planned in the Erongo Region to ensure national coverage.
John Haufiku, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of the MVA Fund, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in advancing education.
“Meaningful progress is never achieved in isolation. While MTC and the Fund focus on providing essential infrastructure, we encourage other corporates, public institutions, communities, and leaders to join us in equipping rural schools to world-class standards,” he urged.
Gandja Ayihe Ndeshipanda Iyambo, Okahao Town Council mayor, welcomed the new classrooms, describing them as a beacon of renewed optimism.
“These classrooms represent possibility, progress, and our shared belief that education is the strongest foundation for the future of our nation,” he said.
