Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture Sanet Steenkamp says private schools are not above the law, warning that the ministry could invoke statutory powers if evidence of racial discrimination warrants intervention.

This was after AR MP George Kambala challenged the Education Minister to consider deregistering or closing the Deutsche Höhere Privatschule and the Afrikaans Private School, following reported racial incidents at the institution.

Responding to Kambala, the Minister said racism, racial hatred and discrimination have no place in Namibia's education system, stressing that all learners are entitled to a safe learning environment where their dignity and rights are protected.

She said the reported incidents were treated seriously, prompting engagements with affected learners, parents and school management.

"On the question of deregistration under Section 79 of the Basic Education Act at number 3 of 2020. It requires a private school to undertake that it will not restrict learners' admission on the grounds of race or ethnic origin, religion, colour or creed. Section 79 further empowers the minister to deregister a private school where circumstances arise that would have justified refusing its registration under Section 76. But now we must be very clear that the exercise of power by the minister must be supported by established facts and follow the prescribed legal processes."

She said both institutions had submitted reports condemning the incidents, while DHPS had committed to reviewing its diversity education framework and strengthening initiatives addressing Namibia's racial history, discrimination and hate speech.

"Continued registration does not amount to an endorsement of any reported conduct, nor does it confer immunity from the law. Every registered school is bound by the conditions of its registration and the laws of our Republic. Where credible evidence establishes non-compliance, our ministry has the responsibility to investigate and consider the appropriate statutory measures. At the same time, our decisions must be based on established facts and lawful procedures while safeguarding the welfare and educational continuity of all learners."

Steenkamp further stated that the ministry would continue monitoring the implementation of corrective measures, emphasising that expressions of regret must be matched by measurable action.