First Gentleman, Epaphras Ndaitwah has called on boys in the Ohangwena Region to take their education seriously, saying education remains the key pathway to a brighter future.

Ndaitwah made the remarks at Eenhana while addressing the boy child under the theme "Empowering the Boy Child for a Resilient and Equitable Future."

The venue was packed with boys from different schools across the region, gathered to listen to a message of hope and inspiration from their mentor.

Ndaitwah urged the boys to make full use of the education opportunities available to them, warning that dropping out of school could limit their future prospects and expose them to social challenges.

His call comes amid concerns over school dropouts in the Ohangwena Region.

According to figures, about 1,750 learners dropped out of school last year, with boys accounting for 65%.

“Education is the greatest equalisers, do not waste time. You have no time to waste; we went to fight for you to be free today and pursue your studies.”

The region has also recorded an increase in crimes from 7,096 cases to 7,222 during the 2025/26 financial year.

"I am a man because I am a man, not because I am a drunkard, or because I smoke dagga, or because I am a criminal, but because I behave."

Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa called for greater support for the boy child, saying addressing the challenges facing boys requires the collective effort of parents, schools, communities, and other stakeholders.

“Supporting boys is not in competition with supporting girls. I repeat... it is a complementary investment in Namibia's future, a nation because of a boy child.”

The event formed part of efforts from the office of the First Gentleman to encourage boys to remain in school, make positive choices, and take responsibility for shaping their future.