People's Primary School is seeking to raise more than N$400,000 to purchase a larger school bus, aimed at improving learners' access to academic, sporting and extracurricular activities.
Established in 1986, the school has relied on support from various partners, including funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.
The fundraising initiative was highlighted at the school's gala dinner, as the institution looks to replace its current 12-seater bus with a vehicle that can accommodate at least 24 passengers, or one with an even larger capacity.
School Board Chairperson Jacqueline Boois said the fundraising drive began in 2023, when the school raised N$29,013.15 through the sale of braai plates and a big walk.
The initiative resumed this year through raffle ticket sales, raising N$135,690 so far, with the school hoping to surpass the N$400,000 target.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Head of Department for Languages, Lucy Goabas, by English teacher Tuuliki Kamakuva, the school described the bus as more than a transport facility but an essential link to academic participation, sporting opportunities and safe travel.
"You are not simply supporting but are funding the journey of the future architects, scientists, leaders, and artists of our nation, Namibia. Let us ensure that our smart peeps ride safely into a successful future."
Principal Elsandra Skrywer said the school's mission is to provide an environment conducive to quality teaching and learning while developing learners academically, socially, emotionally and morally.
She said the bus would enable learners to participate in sporting events, cultural activities, academic competitions, educational excursions and other social engagements.
"This bus represents something much bigger than a vehicle. It represents opportunities. It represents access. It represents inclusion. It represents the removal of barriers that prevent our learners from reaching their potential."
Skrywer appealed to alumni, teachers, parents, businesses, sponsors and the wider community to support the initiative, emphasising that every contribution brings the school closer to its goal.
The school leadership says expanding transport capacity is essential to ensuring that learners do not miss out on opportunities beyond the classroom.