Education the best tool to ensure Namibia’s future prosperity – Mbandeka

Attorney general Festus Mbandeka has urged parents and teachers to treat the education of Namibian children as a shared responsibility, saying success in the classroom is key to securing the country’s future stability.

Speaking at the Onyuulaye Circuit awards ceremony at Hamunyela Combined School on Friday, Mbandeka delivered a motivational address to learners, educators and community leaders.

The event, held under the theme 'Recognising Today’s Achievers and Building Tomorrow’s Leaders', celebrated academic excellence in the Oshikoto region.

Mbandeka said recognising achievement was not only about handing out trophies but also about building young people’s confidence and morale.

He added that acknowledging learners’ success reinforces positive behaviour and encourages others to set higher goals.

"Education is the most important weapon with which you can change the world," Mbandeka said, quoting the late Nelson Mandela.

He added that for Namibia to thrive, young people must understand that their hard work today will shape the quality of their lives tomorrow.

During his address, Mbandeka emphasised the “special position of trust” held by teachers.

However, he also reminded the audience that the foundation of a child’s character begins at home.

"Education must start at home," Mbandeka told parents.

"You are the first teachers. The school board, management and parents must work together and support one another to create a winning environment for our children."

He also urged learners to take full responsibility for their actions and their future, reminding them that they hold the keys to their own empowerment.

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