Africa-Press – Namibia. THE German Embassy has extended its support to the building of a new facility with two classrooms for the ‘Taking Hands Educational Centre’ in Omaruru through its micro-project fund. The centre provides care for children with disabilities and integrates them into a common kindergarten group. In addition, homework supervision for schoolchildren and a healthy lunch is offered in the afternoons, providing them with a quiet learning environment, tutoring, and a nutritious meal every day.
There are no classes in any of the primary schools in Omaruru for learning-assisted education, and there are no affordable schools or institutions for children living with disabilities in the region. As a result, many children with learning and behavioural challenges have been suspended from school and are left sitting at home. Children with disabilities often do not receive the much-needed treatment and are excluded from community life. The centre, with its valuable work, aims to give these children a chance to improve their circumstances and provides them with adequate support.
The funding of N$ 432,000 (approximately 25,000 EUR) will be used for the construction of a larger and disability-friendly building that is located in a more accessible place and can accommodate more children. The new rooms will not be overcrowded, allowing for more effective teaching. The bathroom facilities are planned to be wheelchair-friendly, making them more accessible for children with disabilities. The Center will move into the new premises at the beginning of 2024.
The work of the ‘Taking Hands Trust’ consists of an integrative Early Childhood Development Center with 22 children, five of whom live with disabilities, and an afternoon homework centre with 35 children ranging from preschool to grade 8. At the centre, children have access to WiFi and a printer for their research projects, and they receive tutoring in reading, English, Maths, Ondonga, and Koekoegowab. All the children are provided with a healthy cooked meal for lunch. Additionally, assistance is provided for purchasing spectacles and school uniforms where necessary, and special programs for children with learning disabilities and physical disabilities are implemented.
The project is aimed at children – with or without disabilities – from low-income families who do not have equal opportunities in life due to a lack of financial resources, access to therapy, or support for their homework and learning. It also provides relief for mothers who are caring for their disabled children and are unable to work.
The ‘Taking Hands Educational Centre’ has been operational since September 2021.
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