Twenty-eight Junior Primary teachers in the Ohangwena Region received training in numeracy and ethno-mathematics.

This training was funded by Lutheran University Tacoma, Washington, through the Uukumwe Project, a collaboration between educators from Namibia and the U.S.

"The aim of this workshop was to enhance knowledge and skills in teaching mathematics to primary learners, to understand the curriculum, and to provide hands-on, meaningful learning experiences. In this workshop, participants not only received instruction from UNAM professors but also from me, and they were given toolkits with materials."

Numeracy and mathematics have always been challenges for some teachers, and the workshop equipped them with techniques to facilitate learning.

"We were working with a new syllabus, and whenever we discussed complex topics, we referenced the updated curriculum. We ensured that teachers understood how to incorporate effective mathematics teaching methodologies aligned with the new curriculum."

The organizers hope to extend the program beyond junior primary teachers.

We spoke to some participants who appreciated the various mathematical methods they learned.

"For instance, in teaching measurements, there's a traditional method that involves placing a stick on a flat surface to measure distance. When measuring in the morning, the length of the object appears shorter, but in the afternoon, it appears longer. This is a simple concept that we were unaware of, yet it can be effectively used in our classrooms."

"We really appreciate how the workshop was conducted. It was delivered in an approachable manner, making every participant comfortable. Learning never ends."