Vice President of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, inaugurated the new education office complex in the Ohangwena region, emphasising that it symbolizes more than just infrastructure; it marks a national milestone aimed at improving the quality of education and bringing services closer to the people.
Construction of the Ministry of Education's office complex in Eenhana began in 2016, with the goal of enhancing educational planning and administration in the region.
In her speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted that the state-of-the-art infrastructure demonstrates the government's commitment to empowering communities and expanding access to educational services.
"It is our government's intention to replicate this success in other regions. I am informed that plans are underway to establish similar directorate offices in Oshikoto, Omusati, and Kavango West regions, among others. As funds become available, we are committed to bringing such quality infrastructure to all our regions, ensuring that Namibian children, teachers, and administrators have access to excellent public education services, no matter where they live."
She emphasized that the complex is not merely an office space, but a hub for effective educational planning and service delivery.
Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Anna Nghipondoka, speaking at the same event, highlighted that the complex is the ministry's first regional directorate headquarters built specifically to meet its needs.
She noted that owning the facility will allow funds previously spent on rentals to be reallocated to critical educational initiatives.
"Allow me to make a clarion call to all the officials of Ohangwena Education, Arts and Culture to subscribe and adhere to the principles of good governance, which include accountability, transparency, effectiveness, efficiency, responsiveness, as well as equity and inclusiveness."
Retired General Sebastian Ndeitunga, Governor of the Ohangwena region, expressed optimism, stating that the new office complex would positively influence educational circuits, clusters, and schools throughout the region.
"This new building will serve as the headquarters for the regional leadership in education, arts, and culture, and we anticipate that positive changes emanating from this office will resonate throughout the region. Whenever something new is introduced, it brings a refreshing sense of renewal."
The new complex was constructed at a cost of approximately N$65 million.