New law

Nikanor NangoloWindhoekEducation minister Sanet Steenkamp has announced that the ministry has already begun extensive regional consultations on the draft Teaching Professionals’ Bill, which would require teachers to register with a regulatory professional council before they can set foot in the classroom.The body, to be known as the Teaching Professional Council of Namibia, is intended to professionalise the teaching fraternity across all 14 regions.The consultations began on 15 September in the //Karas Region and will conclude on 17 October in the Ohangwena Region, Steenkamp told parliament yesterday.She said the legislative initiative, diligently prepared by her ministry, represents a pivotal step towards enhancing the quality and standing of education in Namibia and, by extension, addressing unemployment, fostering youth prosperity and strengthening society.“The primary purpose and intent of this Bill is to formally professionalize the teaching profession in Namibia. Its core objective is to enhance and restore the status and image of the teaching profession by ensuring that those entrusted with shaping the minds of future generations are held to the highest standards of excellence and integrity,” Steenkamp said.Independent bodyAccording to the minister, the Teaching Professional Council of Namibia will be a juristic person, independent and subject only to the Namibian Constitution and the law, and will act impartially, without fear, favour or prejudice.The Bill and its regulations aim to achieve several objectives, chief among them universal registration and practice standards. “All educators must be registered, and only those holding valid certificates of practice will be permitted to teach in Namibia. This measure guarantees that only qualified and competent individuals are allowed to teach in both public and private institutions,” Steenkamp said.She highlighted that the council will develop a comprehensive code of professional standards to ensure internationally comparable teaching practices. “This code will guide all registered persons, promoting high-quality education, fostering professional excellence, and maintaining accountability. Accountability and professionalism: The Bill establishes strong ethical and disciplinary measures to promote professionalism and safeguard learners, students, and trainees from poor-quality education and exploitation,” she said.Training and curriculumSteenkamp further noted that all courses and training programmes offered by educational institutions must align with national standards. “The council will be empowered to approve and review teacher training curricula before accreditation by the National Council for Higher Education, ensuring uniformity and quality across both basic and tertiary education,” she said.The Bill also provides for ongoing training, structured career paths and coordinated professional development to sustain excellence in the teaching profession.“In essence... this Bill seeks to elevate the teaching profession to its rightful place as a highly respected, accountable, and professionally excellent career. It aligns with the ministry’s strategic plan, particularly its theme of excellence in teaching and learning and the strategic objective of strengthening the teaching profession to enhance education,” she said.She emphasised that by establishing rigorous professional standards, ensuring continuous professional development, and promoting accountability, the Bill will lay the foundation for delivering quality education across all levels. “The introduction of this Bill marks an important beginning. Our ministry is committed to an inclusive and consultative approach,” she said.Consultative processSteenkamp said the consultations are a crucial part of the democratic process, giving stakeholders – including educators, parents, learners, community leaders, traditional authorities and the public at large – an opportunity to provide input and help shape a Bill that truly reflects Namibia’s educational aspirations. - nikanor@nmh-hub.com.na

New law

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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New law

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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