The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports and Culture has launched the Norms and Standards Framework for Schools in Namibia, including the National Minimum Standard Operating Procedures for Hostels

The measures aimed at strengthening quality education, accountability, and the safety and well-being of learners.

The new framework replaces and expands on the previous national standards and performance indicators used to assess schools.

It introduces seven key areas, including the provision of resources, curriculum implementation, teaching and learning, leadership, links with parents and communities, and regional and cluster support.

The framework contains 31 performance indicators and will be used by education officials and schools to monitor performance, identify challenges, and guide improvement.

Speaking on behalf of Deputy Minister Dino Ballotti, Deputy Executive Director for Formal Education and Schools Edda Bohn says quality education cannot be achieved without proper conditions for both learners and teachers.

“A child cannot be expected to excel in an environment that does not provide the basic conditions for learning. A teacher cannot consistently deliver excellence without the necessary resources and support. And as a nation, we cannot demand world-class outcomes while accepting unequal standards for our children. This is why today's launch matters. When we speak about standards, we must be careful not to reduce the conversation to a checklist inspection or forms of compliance.”

Ballotti said the updated framework recognises the changing education environment, including the growing importance of technology, artificial intelligence, and digital literacy.

Retired Deputy Director Filemon Nangolo commended the ministry for taking steps for reviewing the existing framework and the necessary steps to mobilise resources to support this very important work.

“The launch of this framework is more than the introduction of another policy document. It represents our collective commitment to ensuring that Namibian schools operate within standards that respond to the realities, aspirations and challenges of contemporary education. Our education system continues to evolve, and so do the policies, standards and frameworks that guide it.”

The procedures cover areas such as governance and administration, accommodation, nutrition, health and safety, child protection, staffing, financial management, and record keeping.

The new standards are expected to provide a more comprehensive and inclusive system for evaluating schools.

The hostel procedures aim to ensure that every learner living in a hostel has access to safe accommodation and proper care.