At least 33 learners from Maria Mwengere Secondary School in the Kavango East Region were hospitalised at Rundu Intermediate Hospital due to suspected food poisoning.
According to the Director of Education in the Kavango East Region, Christine Shilima, the food eaten for dinner was left over from Sunday lunch, which had been cooked in excess.
After consuming the meal, learners began experiencing symptoms that included stomach aches, headaches, body weakness and vomiting.
33 learners were rushed to the hospital that evening, with two admitted to the ICU.
"But the ones that were admitted are not the only ones that ate the food. By this morning, I learnt that another group exhibiting similar symptoms had also been taken to the hospital," said Shilima, adding that "When I visited the other patients in the hospital, I was informed that the Kavango East Regional Director of Health's office had sent a team to the school to ensure that the learners receive support and avoid any casualties during this suspected poisoning."
There are about 680 learners in the hostel.
By the time the NBC News team arrived at the school, a team of nurses was attending to the learners.
Shilima said they have yet to establish what exactly caused the suspected food poisoning.
"That's the reason why we have sent the hostel officer on the ground because he needs to inspect the cleanliness and hygiene in the dining hall as well as in the kitchen where they are preparing the food. I confirmed with the principal that our coolrooms are in good condition. The coolrooms are operational. So we do not have any spoilt food that we can suspect was prepared and given to our learners," Shilima said.
Of the 33 learners who were admitted, 17 were discharged on Monday, while one remains in the ICU and another moved to a normal ward, though reportedly in stable condition.
The NBC News team learnt that the rest of the students were still in the hostel, and the kitchen was still operating.
Shilima called on the affected parents to be calm, as the matter is under control.