Transforming education in Namibia: The challenge will not wait

Khomas regional governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua at the launch of the ICT Transforming Education in Africa project, Windhoek, 12 March

Director of ceremonies, from the onset, let me express the gratitude and appreciation of the entire Khomas region community for the honour of hosting this launch and indeed my office for the opportunity to witness and officiate here today.

Director of ceremonies, it is a great pleasure to welcome you all to this important occasion, which marks the official launch of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Transforming Education in Africa project here in the Republic of Namibia. 

I want to acknowledge all the distinguished guests, leaders in education, policymakers from the different line ministries, and, of course, the representatives from our different tertiary institutions, teacher unions, ICT industry leaders and our invaluable development partners. 

This inclusive representation speaks volumes and demonstrates a clear sign of how committed we are to playing our part in the journey of transforming our education towards inclusion and quality.

In addition, on a very special note, a special word of welcome and gratitude goes to our esteemed guests from the Unesco/Unesco-Korean-Funds-in-Trust (KFIT) partnership, whose support has been instrumental in making this initiative a reality. Your presence today signifies the strong collaboration between Namibia and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) in advancing digital transformation in education.

We are here today because we recognise the transformative power of ICT in education. This project is not just about technology – it is about creating equitable access to quality learning opportunities for all Namibian learners. It is about equipping our teachers with the necessary skills to integrate ICT effectively into their teaching, ensuring our learners develop the digital competencies needed for the future.

The significance of today’s launch cannot be overstated. It marks the transition from planning to action as we move towards implementing a harmonised digital learning platform, enhancing teacher and learner capacity, and strengthening ICT policies within the education sector. This project aligns with Namibia’s Vision 2030 and global goals, reinforcing our commitment to inclusive and effective digital learning.

Dear education and ICT fraternity, I always say and will repeat today to reassure you that as a region, we remain ready and supportive of your call to transform our education to be competitive in addressing global challenges. The plight of the Namibian child and their interests always remain a priority in all our development endeavours.

Director of ceremonies and dear delegates, remember what they say, and I quote: “Digital transformation is a journey, not a destination,” and “Digital transformation is not about technology – it’s about change”. 

This simply means we are gathered here today to kick off a very important undertaking, which is not only about adopting technology, but also a test of our commitment and willingness to adapt to changes as a nation.

Having said that, director of ceremonies, allow me to share two of my favourite quotes from Paulo Coelho and Martin Luther King Jr as the foundation of my message today:

“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change. At such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait; life does not look back.” – Paulo Coelho.

“Our very survival depends on our ability to stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant and to face the challenge of change.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

The essence of these two powerful quotes is that life continuously challenges us, and our survival depends on our ability to stay awake, vigilant and open to new ideas in facing the challenge of change.

Your participation is crucial in ensuring that the objectives we set forth today translate into meaningful impact in our Namibian classrooms. Last but not least, let me, on our behalf, welcome our minister of education, arts and culture and extend our collective gratitude to her. The ministry’s continuous passion for driving meaningful change in the education sector is something we should all admire, and we are grateful for the leadership.

Dear respected government leaders, your presence here today demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our government to education as a national priority. May every passing day refill the entire Namibian people and its leadership with the wisdom, conviction and determination for education to remain our national priority for generations to come.

Finally, once again, on behalf of the organisers of the event and the entire Khomas community, welcome to the official launch of the ICT Transforming Education project. 

Let us officially begin this journey of transformation together and pull in the same direction.

Thank you, and welcome once again!