Otjozondjupa sets out to improve education performance

OTJIWARONGO - The Otjozondjupa education directorate on Wednesday rewarded its teachers, learners and schools which performed exceptionally well in the 2021 academic year.

A total of 120 teachers, seven learners and 12 schools in the region were rewarded for their good performance in grade 11 Ordinary level and grade 12 Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level.

The awards were only for those who obtained A*, A, B and C symbols.

Regional education director Josephine Mutenda said at the event held in Otjiwarongo that the directorate this year aims to achieve a 70% to 100% pass rate in grade 11 and grade 12 AS level.

“If it will require us to conduct in-service training for our teachers facing difficulties, we will do it,” she noted, before revealing that her office has set aside N$250 000 for such training.

About 2 048 learners were in grade 11 last year in the region, of whom only 440 are enrolled in Grade 12 this year.

Mutenda observed that the best performers are recognised with cash prizes, medals, trophies, gifts and certificates to show appreciation for their efforts, and to encourage those who did not do well to also improve this year.

Otjozondjupa governor James Uerikua handed over the awards, while accompanied by visiting Oshana governor Elia Irimari.

The Otjiwarongo Senior Secondary School (SSS) scooped the overall performing award, while its English teachers at AS level - Arlete Sambiliye and Klementine Shikongo - were likewise recognised as the overall performers in the region.

Donatus SSS was crowned the most improved school here, while other government and private schools from Grootfontein, Okahandja and Otavi also received awards for their milestone performances.