The Omakuva community in Onesi Constituency marked a significant milestone with the official opening of St Gerhard Private School — an early childhood education centre established by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus under the Roman Catholic Church.
Founded on 26 February 2023, the school was made possible through approval from the Ministry of Education and land donated by the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority. It initially enrolled 69 learners from pre-grade to grade 2 and has now grown to 151 learners, with plans to expand to grade 3 soon.
Governor of the Omusati Region, Erginus Endjala, officially opened the school during a ceremony attended by regional education officials, police representatives, traditional leaders, and members of the Catholic Church.
“I am extending deep gratitude to the Roman Catholic Church for meeting the government halfway in the noble mission of education to the Namibian child,” said Endjala. “Your continued partnership and commitment to quality education are making an everlasting impact in shaping the future of our nation. With great pride and optimism, I am here then declaring St Gerhard Private School officially open.”
Speaking on behalf of the director of education, Chief Education Officer Justina Amupolo emphasised the importance of community collaboration in supporting the school’s growth.
“Let us continue to nurture this vital partnership as parents, as community members with St Gerhard Private School, and the community that it serves,” said Amupolo. “By working together hand in hand, we can ensure that this institution remains a beacon of hope, a centre of excellence. We have few schools in Namibia that are called centres of excellence; every parent from any corner of Namibia wants their children to go to that specific school.”
She added that the Directorate of Education is ready and available to support the school in its mission to deliver quality education.
The event also welcomed Sister Bonaventura Kim, General Superior of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, who travelled from Rome to witness the occasion.
“This school is the result of collective vision, hard work and the belief in the power of education,” she said. “It is the sign of the possibilities that lie ahead for every one of you students, every teacher, every parent and every member of this community. Together we are creating a foundation for a brighter future, one that will last for generations to come.”