The Otjozondjupa Education Directorate has recognised top-performing learners, teachers, and schools for the 2025 academic year.

In the junior primary phase, Frieda Andreas of Omulunga Primary School achieved first place in Grade 3 with 99%, while Malakia Alugongo of Spes Bona Primary School topped Grade 7 after he scored 91%.

Among the overall top achievers, Papaera Rikuatowanga of Karundu Primary School recorded 97.6% in Grade 1, while Flora Kakunda of Monica Geingos Secondary School led Grade 9 with 86%.

The learners received a stationery voucher worth N$1,000 from the northern Old Mutual branch.

At the senior secondary level, Halleluya Shailemo of Karstveld Academy was named the top Grade 11 learner, while Ndahambelela Vatilifa of Otjiwarongo Secondary School topped the Grade 12 NSSCAS category.

Each of the learners received a USB and a backpack from the Otjozondjupa Education Directorate. 

Teachers were also recognised for outstanding performance, including several who achieved 100%.

"Let me quote from Miles Monroe: If you work under a hostile environment, don't expect praises from your bosses. Look at the job delivery, look at your pay cheque, and reward yourself by slapping yourself on the shoulder and saying, 'Despite difficult circumstances under which I'm working, I did my best'," said Governor John ||Khamuseb.

Karstveld Academy dominated the school categories, winning best-performing school in both NSSCO and NSSCAS, as well as the overall best-performing school award. 

Education Director Gerhard Ndafenongo said, "The children that are attending private schools are Namibians, correct? Whatever they will achieve after they complete their studies here at private schools will still elevate the quality of life in our country." 

Wilhelm Nortier Primary School was named the best-performing primary school, while J.G. van der Wath Secondary School was recognised as the most improved public school. Catalyst Educational Centre was the most improved Grade 12 NSSCAS school. 

Okaepe Primary School was awarded the title of best-performing rural primary school, while Okamatapati Combined School was honoured with the overall rural school award. Grootfontein Circuit was acknowledged as the best-performing circuit.

In the non-academic categories, schools were also recognised for their participation in national programmes and cultural activities. 

Monica Geingos Secondary School and J.G. van der Wath Secondary School were recognised for mathematics and science programmes, while Luiperduiwel Primary School received the choral award. 

Grootfontein Community Library was named the best community library.

B2 Gold Namibia sponsored N$150,000 that went towards the annual awards.