The Council of Omuthiya Constituency in the Oshikoto Region paid a motivational courtesy visit to Iipundi Secondary School to reaffirm its commitment to improving education and learner welfare in the constituency. The delegation was led by Councillor Erastus Nekomba, accompanied by the Mayor of Omuthiya Town, Wilbard Anyemba.
Addressing learners and staff, Councillor Nekomba said the visit formed part of the council’s responsibility to engage directly with schools, understand their challenges, and provide moral leadership. He emphasised that academic improvement requires discipline, commitment, and strong partnerships between schools, parents, and leaders.
“It is important for learners to hear encouragement from different stakeholders and for teachers to feel supported,” said Nekomba. “We understand the environment you are working in. Challenges such as drug and alcohol abuse, peer pressure, and social distractions affect learner performance. As a council, we want to familiarise ourselves with the school, take responsibility, and play our role in guiding our young people towards the right path.”
Nekomba encouraged learners to remain focused on their studies and to resist negative influences, including substance abuse and relationships that distract them from their education.
“Education is your foundation. When you protect it, you protect your future. No temporary pressure should destroy your long-term dreams,” stated Nekomba.
School principal Susan Muhongo expressed sincere appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and motivating.
“This courtesy visit made us feel remembered and valued. It has motivated both staff and learners and shows that the council genuinely cares about our challenges and progress,” said Muhongo.
Iipundi Secondary School has a total enrolment of 546 learners, with 546 actively attending classes, including 219 boys and 275 girls. The school faces challenges such as learner dropouts due to accommodation constraints, limited parental support, inadequate hostel facilities, and a shortage of computers.
Despite these challenges, Muhongo said the school is making progress. “Although our performance has been affected by social issues, including substance abuse and teenage pregnancy – close to 20 girls fell pregnant last year – we continue to rehabilitate and guide our learners. This shows why we need this kind of support,” added Muhongo.