The Ohangwena Directorate of Education urgently requires about N$2.4 billion to address serious infrastructure shortages in schools across the region.

The education facilities deficiency in the region was revealed by Ohangwena Education Director Isak Hamatwi during a regional engagement meeting with Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa, attended by senior education officials and inspectors.

Presenting an overview of the region, Hamatwi said the region needs 879 new classrooms, noting that close to 900 existing classrooms are still constructed with sticks and zinc, making them unsuitable for proper teaching and learning.

He further indicated that approximately N$2.4 billion would be required to construct and upgrade critical facilities, including science laboratories, libraries, computer laboratories, administration blocks, technical subject workshops, boarding schools, ablution facilities, hostel blocks and school furniture.

Hamatwi also stressed the need for the adequate provision of learning and teaching materials, such as textbooks and stationery, to improve academic performance.

He added that continuous engagement with teachers and learners is essential to motivate them and improve education outcomes in the region.