Namibia’s Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture has launched its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, setting out key priorities to improve school infrastructure, strengthen digital learning and expand opportunities for young people.

Deputy Minister Dino Ballotti, delivering the keynote address on behalf of Minister Dr Sanet Steenkamp in Windhoek on Monday, said the plan aims to create sustainable, quality learning environments for every child across the country. Ballotti announced that 148 permanent classrooms and 66 pre-primary classrooms are being constructed across all 14 regions ahead of the 2027 school year.

The ministry is also building 25 schools in 10 regions to ease classroom overcrowding, with 22 of the projects already having reached roof level. Improving access to education remains a priority, with 500 371 learners benefiting from the school feeding programme and 30 223 students receiving financial assistance through the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) in 2025.

To strengthen digital education, the ministry plans to connect an additional 300 schools to the internet, helping learners and teachers access digital learning resources. The strategic plan also targets skills development and youth employment through the upgrading of four vocational training centres into colleges offering qualifications up to Level 6. Ballotti acknowledged that funding shortages, inadequate infrastructure and limited internet connectivity in rural areas remain major challenges.

He called on communities, development partners and other stakeholders to work with the ministry to implement the plan and improve educational outcomes nationwide. The five-year strategy provides a framework for expanding access to quality education, developing relevant skills and preparing Namibian learners and young people for future opportunities.

By Rudi Bowe