Paseta Namibia sows seeds of knowledge, entrepreneurship in Okahandja

The Pan-Africanist School of Economics, Technology and Agriculture (Paseta) continues its mission to empower African youth with practical skills and a sense of community responsibility through the launch of its back-to-school garden initiative last Wednesday at K.W. von Marëes Combined School in Okahandja.

The organisation donated a starter package of agricultural supplies valued at approximately N$5 000 to support the establishment of the school garden.

"Sometimes change begins with a seed and a hand willing to help plant it. From those humble beginnings, something powerful unfolds," Diina Mweneni Hameva Namundjebo, Paseta Namibia president, said.

"When a child plants a seed, they plant belief, hope and ownership of the soil that sustains them. That is why agriculture is one of Paseta’s strongest pillars. Through soil, we teach self-reliance, responsibility and leadership," Namundjebo explained.

Starter kits

The package included gardening tools, seeds, seedlings, compost and fertilisers and essential garden equipment, enabling learners and teachers to begin planting immediately.

The initiative reflects Paseta’s broader goal of nurturing confident, skilled and socially responsible young Africans who understand the value of land, knowledge and community.

By combining agriculture with entrepreneurship and practical education, learners are empowered to contribute meaningfully to their communities, strengthen families and advance Africa’s long-term food security and economic resilience.

February is agriculture month at Paseta, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of agricultural education in schools and its tangible, real-world impact.

Digging in

As part of the back-to-school garden initiative, learners are provided with hands-on workshops designed to suit their age and experience levels.

Older learners gain exposure to livestock management, crop cultivation and other agricultural disciplines, offering them a career-fair-style experience that demonstrates agriculture as a viable professional path.

Meanwhile, younger learners engage in practical instruction focused on soil preparation, compost and fertiliser creation, and the development of sustainable gardens, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in a tangible and meaningful way.

The initiative also incorporates entrepreneurship education, allowing learners to sell crops they have grown during their school’s entrepreneurship day, fostering skills in marketing, product management and financial literacy. Exceptional effort is recognised, and parents and community members are invited to celebrate learners' achievements.

Paseta Namibia is committed to expanding the programme nationwide, starting with this pilot project, and will officially launch it in Windhoek on 2 May.

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