Anna Hijamutiti, pre-primary school teacher at D.D. Guibeb Primary School in Mariental

When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

Since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I want to be like my teacher that always encouraged me to strive for the things I wanted and I wanted to do the same for other children. Another reason why I become a teacher is to have my own classroom and decorate it and set my own rules.

What is the best part about being a teacher?

I am particularly excited to see the glow on the learners’ faces when they accomplish even the smallest task. I love to assist lower achieving learners in gaining confidence and improving their academic performance and behaviour.

Can you tell us your journey towards becoming a teacher?

To make a difference in the lives of children is such an important goal to me. I enjoy being around children and would love to be able to teach them valuable life lessons during their time in primary school.

What has been the highlight of your teaching career thus far?

Seeing the good performance of my learners in next grades. I love having those students tell you that you made a difference in their lives, because that is incredibly fulfilling.

What are some of your hobbies or things you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love to make teaching aids, creative arts like painting and crafts, cooking and baking and spending time with my family. I also enjoy needlework a lot.

What lessons have you learnt from your learners?

Mistakes are good because we learn best from mistakes. Children make lots of mistakes. Sometimes a concept must be rehearsed over and over before they get it. Your patience and persistence are tested to the max, but you learn so much from them every day.

What is the one thing that keeps you going every day?

The Almighty, I can do nothing on my own strength. God provides both physical and spiritual strength in our time of need.