The Rogate Primary School in Otjiwarongo held a pre-Independence celebration under the school's own theme, 'Independently United'.

Before independence, Rogate Primary School was only for the Damara-speaking learners, as other tribes attended school elsewhere.

The school only opened its doors to all tribes after independence.

Although Independence Day is mainly celebrated with songs and dance, the former principal of the school, Emmanuel Negumbo, reminded the learners that independence did not come on a silver platter but through armed struggle.

"People would be happy dancing around, but it is also a solemn moment for us. Some of us have lost brothers during the war; people were killed, as the war of resistance started very long ago, in the late 80s."

Negumbo encouraged learners to take their education seriously.

The principal, Maria Chinyama, said she is grateful to be part of a school that is diverse yet united to attain a common goal.

"Because our theme says independently unified, you should celebrate unity in your own independent way as Rogate Primary School. And it wouldn't be a success unless everyone held hands."

Drama and poetry were also part of the day's activities as learners celebrated independence at the school.