The Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, announced the launch of the "End Learning Poverty for All in Africa" campaign, scheduled for July 29 to July 31, 2025, in Outjo, Kunene region.

Steenkamp emphasized that Namibia is facing a crisis in foundational literacy and numeracy, which poses significant risks to the country’s economic growth and social stability.

She noted that these challenges hinder the development of skilled professionals essential for national progress.

In 2024, the ministry conducted a literacy and numeracy assessment for grade three students, revealing concerning results that highlight the need for investment in early childhood education, particularly in kindergarten.

To address these issues, Steenkamp outlined a series of comprehensive interventions being implemented by the ministry, such as Jolly Phonics and Jolly Grammar, aimed at providing essential English literacy skills in the junior primary phase.

She also announced plans to develop a phonics-based literacy framework for 11 languages in Namibia, promoting inclusivity and improving access to education.