For learners in rural Namibia access to safe and adequate classrooms remains a challenge.

At Okongue Primary School about 50 kilometers outside Omatjete, the crowdedness has been eased following an investment of millions of dollars in new and renovated facilities at the school.

Government and communities continue to grapple with limited resources for educational infrastructure.

However, the launch of the MTC Rural School Project in 2019 brought relief through its social investment initiative to assist the government in addressing these challenges.

MTC and MVA Fund have invested in improving educational infrastructure at three schools in the Erongo Region, mainly JP Brandt Primary School. Oe#gab Primary School and Okongue Primary School.

The overall investment amounts to N$3.2 million, while the MVA fund contributed N$1 million towards the construction of two classroom blocks and two storerooms at the three schools.

"The classrooms that we celebrate today will provide much-needed space and improved conditions for teaching and learning. However, their true value will not only be measured by the structures that we see before us today, their greatest value will be found in the young minds that will learn within these classrooms," said Inecia Brandt, Daures Constituency Councillor.

The Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at MVA Fund, John Haufiku, says apart from the Fund's primary mandate, it also supports communities through projects in education, health, and disability support.

"The idea that small towns and rural schools have what it takes to make a difference, belief in education as the engine of development, and the belief that the future of this country will be shaped not only in our cities but decisively in schools such as this one."

Erongo Governor Natalia |Goagoses welcomes the partnership, describing the project as an example of what can be achieved when the government, the private sector, and communities work together.

"These improved facilities will provide our learners with a safer, more dignified, and conducive environment in which to learn, develop, and pursue their aspirations. As a government, we recognize that education is a shared responsibility."