Social Security Commission donates classroom block to Omusati school

The Social Security Commission (SSC) handed over a block of two classrooms and one storeroom to Omalago Primary School in the Tsandi constituency of the Omusati region on Thursday.

The construction of the fully furnished block cost N$988 425 and will accommodate 90 pupils.

The school, situated about 20 kilometres south-east of Tsandi, has 324 pupils and 11 teachers catering for pre-primary to Grade 7.

Speaking at the handover, school principal Ruusa Kandume said for many years the school faced the challenge of a lack of infrastructure, which hindered effective teaching and learning.

“As a result, we requested classroom donations from various education stakeholders, of which the SSC came to our rescue. The construction was done in four months by the local contractor, Onambula Investment Group,” Kandume said.Kandume added that despite various requests, many corporate entities have been making small contributions of school uniforms and stationery but have not provided the critical support needed to move away from traditional classrooms to permanent structures.

“In 2022, a breakthrough came when the SSC positively responded to our school application. They granted us a project sponsorship whereby they funded the construction of a block of two classrooms and a storeroom fully furnished,” she said.

Speaking at the handover, education, arts and culture deputy minister Faustina Caley said the donation complements the ministry’s efforts to improve the education environment.

“This is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared belief that every child deserves access to quality education in a conducive learning environment. It is for this reason that the African Union declared 2024 as a year of education. The emphasis we are putting on the whole continent is in primary education,” Caley said.

Caley noted that a conducive learning environment is vital.“These classrooms will ensure focused and effective teaching. They will provide a safe, comfortable and stimulating environment where our pupils can thrive. The storeroom will ensure that educational materials and resources are well organised and readily available, enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience.”SSC Oshakati project leader of employment creation projects Concerta Tshikesho, who read a speech on behalf of SSC commission chief executive Milka Mungunda, said the donation recognises an urgent need for improved education facilities countrywide.

“This project was not just about building structures, it was about creating a foundation for better education, better opportunities and a better future for the 90 pupils who will now be taught in these conducive and well equipped classrooms,” Mungunda said.