The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture (MEIYSAC) has expressed shock over the suicide deaths of three teachers from the Enyana Combined School, Eenhana Secondary School, and Ohehonge Combined School in the Ohangwena region.

Minister Sanet Steenkamp emphasised the urgent need for open dialogue about mental health, financial stress, and systemic challenges facing teachers. She highlighted the ministry’s 2018 National Safe School Framework, promoting a supportive school culture for teachers and learners.

Supported by UNICEF, MEIYSAC will conduct a situational analysis on teacher well-being, examining policies, job satisfaction, support systems, and mental health needs to develop strategies for improvement.

The ministry plans immediate collaborations with the Ministry of Health and Social Services to raise mental health awareness and with the Ministry of Finance to enhance teachers’ financial literacy. School management is urged to conduct regular mental health check-ins and maintain open-door policies to support teachers facing emotional, financial, or professional challenges.

Steenkamp called on all to break the stigma around mental health and encourage seeking professional help to prevent further losses.