Rupeho Junior Primary School in Kavango West has received new classrooms, giving the school a fresh chance to serve its community.

Established in 1975, Rupeho Junior Primary School, which serves 45 learners from Grades 1 to 3 with two teachers, has transitioned from zinc sheet structures to proper facilities. 

Tulikwateseni Fishing Pty Ltd constructed an N$1.4 million classroom block and storeroom, while Demersal Fishing donated over N$100,000, ablution facilities and learning materials.

Impressed by the companies' contributions, Tondoro Constituency Councillor Joseph Sikongo called on all companies that benefit from government resources to give back to communities through tangible support.

"All the company is to be compelled to plough back to the community in the form of the construction of a school, but not matrasses, not fish, not something simple, but schools. Because our priority as a country is classrooms. But if every company is to be given that fishing right, and they have to be compelled at least in a financial year for them to construct a school, by 2035, all schools will be constructed. All learners will be sitting in a proper classroom."

Kavango West Regional Education Director Pontianus Musore noted that these new facilities are a vital morale boost for the school's teachers and students.

"You did not just see a school in need of infrastructure. To us, you saw potential. You saw young minds eager to learn and teachers dedicated to shaping the future of the children, despite facing severe infrastructural challenges. Before today, our learners and teachers adapted to tough conditions by stepping forward to construct these beautiful classrooms. You have restored dignity to our learners. You have provided them with a safe heaven where rain, wind, and scorching heat will no longer disrupt their lessons."

In his keynote address, the Chairperson of the National Council, Lukas Muha, encouraged learners to remain focused on education.

"Let us take our education very seriously. We have to work towards achieving our goals and aspirations; let it be the key to success. Let it be the key to success. Many a time, we are reminded of the poverty in Kavango West. Part of this downfall is created by the lack of education. Part of it is created by the dropouts. Today, you are witnessing the situation yourself, where those that are graduating and having their first certificates, be it in education or any other field, are not securing jobs. Those who are graduating and obtaining their diplomas up to a first degree are not obtaining jobs. It is telling us that we are now entering a competitive world."