Mbumba urges investment in education on Day of African Child

President Nangolo Mbumba has joined Namibia and the rest of the African continent in celebrating the International Day of the African Child.

The day, held under the theme ‘Education for all children in Africa: the time is now’ this year, commemorates the student uprising in Soweto, South Africa every year on 16 June.

In a statement released on Sunday by the Office of the Presidency, Mbumba said that despite the significant progress Namibia has made, there are still miles to go.

“Many African countries, including Namibia, continue to face formidable challenges in the education sector. The barriers to education, which include economic obstacles, infrastructural deficits, gender disparities, quality and cultural practices, are multifaceted and therefore require a multi-stakeholder approach to finding lasting solutions,” he said.

Mbumba emphasised the imperative for Namibia to prioritise investment in the sector and enact policies that provide targeted support for marginalised groups.

He said these groups include children with disabilities and girls, but that boys should not be left behind.

“Namibia has achieved significant milestones in educating our children through free primary and secondary education. Our dedication to the cause of education is reflected in budget allocations, with the education sector receiving the largest portion, thereby underscoring our nation’s prioritisation of education as a cornerstone of sustainable development,” he said.