Providing accessible education to Namibian adults

The Hatika Adult Education Centre, founded by passionate educator Wilfried Wilhelm Mbamba, provides a variety of education opportunities to adults.The centre is situated in the Goreangab informal settlement and was founded on 4 May 2019.Inspired by his passion for education, Mbamba said: "I am dedicated to providing accessible and affordable education to adults in Namibia. I want to make a positive impact in my community and beyond and establish different centres across Namibia."The centre operates with the help of dedicated volunteers who offer their time on Saturdays.On offer are courses like English, Afrikaans, basic computer levels one and two, sign language, knitting, arts and crafts, financial literacy, cooking, small business management, women’s empowerment studies, and learner’s license classes."I recognise that leadership skills play a pivotal role in the survival of the institution. As such, I am focused on improving my management skills to ensure the success of the adult education centre."Moulding a young leader Mbamba was selected to be part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for young African leaders in 2018, a flagship programme that brings young African leaders to the United States.It offers intensive academic and leadership training to accomplished innovators and young African leaders, and it enabled him to study public management at the University of Minnesota for six weeks."The prestigious programme is followed by a summit in Washington, DC, sponsored by the US Department of State, which aims to develop the capacity of the next generation of African leaders in areas such as business, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and public administration," he said.Ability recognised Mbamba has a bachelor's honours degree in education from the University of Namibia, which provided him with a strong foundation.In 2021, he was awarded a Chevening scholarship to pursue a master's in education at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. The scholarship is an all-expenses-paid scholarship with a monthly stipend, awarded to outstanding individuals around the world. Individuals should demonstrate leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to contribute to their home country after completing their studies. They are then allowed to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any field."I am confident that I am well-equipped to play a significant role in the educational sector. The trick is to stay focused on your goals, work hard, and persevere through any obstacles you may encounter. Seek out mentors and peers who can support and guide you, and never be afraid to take risks or pursue opportunities outside of your comfort zone," he said."Remember that success is not an overnight achievement but rather the result of consistent effort, patience and a willingness to learn and grow."

Providing accessible education to Namibian adults

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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Providing accessible education to Namibian adults

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-18

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