Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture Dr Sanet Steenkamp has called for zero tolerance towards vaping, drugs, alcohol and violence in schools, urging parents, teachers and communities to take greater responsibility for protecting learners.

Dr Steenkamp made the call during the inauguration of Outjo Project Primary School, and Okapundja Primary School in Outjo. She warned that the growing presence of drugs and vaping among young people poses a serious threat to learners’ wellbeing, education and future.

“Drugs are drugs,” Dr Steenkamp stressed, warning that substances remain dangerous regardless of how they are packaged or disguised, including in muffins, sweets or cookies.

The Minister said government would continue strengthening efforts to create safe and supportive learning environments, while calling on parents and teachers to play an active role in identifying and addressing social problems affecting learners.

She also called for closer cooperation between the Ministry of Education and the Namibian Police to combat vaping, drug use, alcohol abuse and violence in schools.

Dr Steenkamp said stronger school safety and awareness campaigns are needed to educate learners about the dangers of substance abuse and encourage them to make responsible choices.

She emphasised that protecting children cannot be left to schools alone, saying parents, educators, law enforcement and communities must work together to address social ills affecting young people.

The Minister’s remarks came as government continues investing in education infrastructure, with the inauguration of the three schools marking an important development for learners and communities in Outjo.

She said safe schools are essential for quality education and called on all stakeholders to ensure that learners are given an environment where they can learn, grow and develop without fear of drugs, violence or other harmful influences.

By Rudi Bowe