MTC opens early childhood development centre at Oshakati

MTC Namibia opened an early childhood development (ECD) centre at Oshakati on Friday.

The new facility at Onawa informal settlement, which cost over N$800 000, was established in collaboration with the Development Workshop Namibia (DWN) and the Oshakati Town Council. It boasts modern classrooms, a tuck shop, and an outdoor play area to encourage children’s physical development.

In addition to its educational role, the model centre will serve as a hub for essential community activities, including educarer training, parental workshops and ministerial services, such as birth registration outreaches.

MTC corporate affairs manager John Ekongo said the initiative aims to create a supportive environment that benefits children and the entire community.

“It is important to invest in early childhood development so that children who attend ECD centres can stimulate their minds to learn new skills. This includes activities such as reading, writing and math, which is essential for later success in school and life,” he said.

According to DWN country director Jessica Brown, when private institutions complement the government in the national development agenda, notable progress will be realised.

“Research points that high-quality early childhood education can have long-term benefits for children, such as better academic performance and reduced likelihood of involvement in the criminal justice system. Children who attend high-quality ECD centres are more likely to graduate from high school and tertiary institutions, and have successful careers,” she said.

Acting director in the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare Nichlas Mbingeneeko in remarks delivered on his behalf said the Namibian government recognises the critical importance of ECD centres and pre-primary education in improving educational outcomes for children.National frameworks such as the Fifth National Development Plan (2017) and the Harambee Prosperity Plan II (2021) emphasise the need for investment in the early years of childhood to maximise developmental impact.

However, the country still faces significant challenges.

According to 2018 statistics, only 29% of children up to the age of four attended ECD centres, with even lower numbers following the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, many ECD educarers remain untrained and unsupported.