90 learners from Otjozondjupa have gathered in Okahandja to attend the ICT boot camp organised by the regional directorate.
The week-long boot camp aims to assess the learners' skills readiness for the upcoming region's ICT in Education Summit and Exhibition scheduled to take place from the 6th to the 10th of October at Otjiwarongo.
Senior Education Officer Lurencia Muzuma said the Ministry's Strategic Plan for 2025-2023 places strong emphasis on excellence in teaching and learning, recognising that the quality of education offered must provide and prepare learners for the rapidly changing world.
"Under this strategic pillar lies a crucial objective, to improve access to universal, inclusive digital learning and resources. This objective speaks directly to the heart of our discussion today. In the 21st century, digital skills are no longer optional, but they are essential. Yet, we must also acknowledge the disparities that exist. Access to devices, reliable connectivity at times and relevant digital content is still uneven across our communities. If we are to truly achieve excellence in teaching and learning, then every learner, regardless of their background, must have the opportunity to benefit from digital learning tools and resources."
"The reason I came to the ICT boot camp is to improve my skills in digital literacy and to also get a chance to apply more knowledge so that I can help and use my knowledge to help the country in developing in technology," says Sydney Mungonge, a learner at Wilhelm Nortier Primary School.
Kylian Damases, a learner at Grootfontein Secondary School, said, "I want to know how robotics work. I think ICT can help with the development of the country, and it can also help us in schools, engaging in the learning, and also help teachers, instead of having to write summaries. And the other thing is the vehicle. We don't even have transport here. All stakeholders who are here, agriculture, home affairs for immigration now, as well as police officers."
The week-long boot camp covers topics such as the basics of robotics, the use of artificial intelligence, and coding.