Nanso demands school closure after learners stung by wasps

At least 70 learners and teachers at Otjivero Primary School in the Omaheke Region have been stung by wasps, prompting the Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO) to call for the immediate closure of the school until the infestation is fully eradicated.



NANSO president Dorthea Nangolo said the situation poses a serious safety risk, particularly because the school serves primary learners who may not recognise the danger or avoid disturbing wasp nests.



“We were informed that at least 70 people had already been stung. In some cases, both teachers and learners had to be sent home after being attacked by wasps,” Nangolo said.



The organisation said it became aware of the matter through media reports and subsequently visited the school to verify the claims. During the inspection, NANSO representatives observed wasp nests in trees and inside classrooms, describing the conditions as unsafe.



“This is a primary school with young learners who do not fully understand what is happening. They run around freely, which places them at serious risk,” NANSO said.



Meanwhile, Omaheke Regional Director of Education Eliakim Kavari confirmed that the infestation was first reported last Tuesday and Wednesday. He said a work inspector had assessed the situation and described it as a serious crisis.