Education ministry launches digital school project
Namibia embarks on modern learning era
Teachers who had undergone specialised training in digital education urged stakeholders to improve internet connectivity throughout Namibia, particularly in rural regions.
Education minister Anna Nghipondoka launched a digital school project on Monday at the National Institute for Educational Development (NIED) in Okahandja.
The event also celebrated the graduation of 53 teachers from 16 schools across the country who have completed specialised training in digital education.
The digital school initiative, which aims to integrate technology into the classroom, represents a key step in transforming Namibia’s education system. The 53 teachers were trained over the past month through a 10-hour course provided by UAE-based The Digital School, focusing on online teaching methodologies.
The selected schools span various regions, with one digital school pilot identified per region, except for Khomas and Hardap, where two schools each were chosen.
Bethanie Primary School, Tutaleni Primary School, D.D. Guibeb Primary School and Nkurenkuru Combined School, were among the schools involved.
A unique feature of the programme is the inclusion of one resource school, previously known as a special school, to cater to diverse educational needs.
Flimsy networks
Teachers expressed their appreciation for the programme, highlighting its potential to bridge educational gaps.
However, those working in remote areas also called for improvements in network conditions, urging stakeholders such as MTC and Telecom – who were present at the event – to enhance connectivity. This would ensure that the benefits of digital education are fully realised and accessible to all students, regardless of their location.
Advancing education
Nghipondoka emphasised the ministry’s dedication to digital transformation during the event.
“We are dedicated to advancing our educational system through technology. The rollout of ICT devices, including 42 new computer labs, is just one part of our strategy. The digital school project is pivotal, as we aim to digitalise all schools and educational content," she said.
She added that the ministry also plans to introduce SMART televisions in primary schools to further support educators and students.
Global standards
Nghipondoka underlined that it's the ministry's hope that this initiative will eventually become a comprehensive programme for all educators.
Addressing ongoing scepticism about educational reforms, Nghipondoka defended the digital school initiative as a continuation of the national education reform efforts initiated in 2022.
“While some voices suggest returning to old systems, our focus remains on progressing with global educational standards. We must support and perfect the reforms we have agreed upon to ensure our education system meets the evolving needs of our nation,” she said.
The event also celebrated the graduation of 53 teachers from 16 schools across the country who have completed specialised training in digital education.
The digital school initiative, which aims to integrate technology into the classroom, represents a key step in transforming Namibia’s education system. The 53 teachers were trained over the past month through a 10-hour course provided by UAE-based The Digital School, focusing on online teaching methodologies.
The selected schools span various regions, with one digital school pilot identified per region, except for Khomas and Hardap, where two schools each were chosen.
Bethanie Primary School, Tutaleni Primary School, D.D. Guibeb Primary School and Nkurenkuru Combined School, were among the schools involved.
A unique feature of the programme is the inclusion of one resource school, previously known as a special school, to cater to diverse educational needs.
Flimsy networks
Teachers expressed their appreciation for the programme, highlighting its potential to bridge educational gaps.
However, those working in remote areas also called for improvements in network conditions, urging stakeholders such as MTC and Telecom – who were present at the event – to enhance connectivity. This would ensure that the benefits of digital education are fully realised and accessible to all students, regardless of their location.
Advancing education
Nghipondoka emphasised the ministry’s dedication to digital transformation during the event.
“We are dedicated to advancing our educational system through technology. The rollout of ICT devices, including 42 new computer labs, is just one part of our strategy. The digital school project is pivotal, as we aim to digitalise all schools and educational content," she said.
She added that the ministry also plans to introduce SMART televisions in primary schools to further support educators and students.
Global standards
Nghipondoka underlined that it's the ministry's hope that this initiative will eventually become a comprehensive programme for all educators.
Addressing ongoing scepticism about educational reforms, Nghipondoka defended the digital school initiative as a continuation of the national education reform efforts initiated in 2022.
“While some voices suggest returning to old systems, our focus remains on progressing with global educational standards. We must support and perfect the reforms we have agreed upon to ensure our education system meets the evolving needs of our nation,” she said.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article