Africa-Press – Namibia. PRIME Minister Dr Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare has urged schools across the nation to refrain from suspending students for misbehaviour and, instead, adopt approaches focused on rehabilitation and guidance.
He emphasised that students should be supported in rediscovering their potential rather than being pushed onto the streets.
Speaking during a visit to Hochland Park High Secondary School yesterday, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the growing need to address mental health challenges among learners.
REHABILITATION NOT SUSPENSIONS: Scenes from the school visit. Photos: Office of the Prime Minister OPM_Namibia.
Reflecting on an incident from 2010 at Hochland High School, Dr Ngurare shared his experience as chairperson of the school board at the time, working alongside fellow board members to prevent the suspension of five students caught smoking hubbly bubbly. Rather than resorting to suspension, the board chose a rehabilitative approach, requiring the students to offer a public apology during a packed school assembly as part of a corrective action aimed at fostering accountability and personal growth.
The Prime Minister encouraged students to open up and seek help from their teachers when facing difficulties. He reminded them that it is normal to encounter challenges during adolescence, a critical time of self-discovery, and that support and understanding are far more effective than punishment and shame.
“Do not cut your life short because of challenges. Everything has its time and will come to an end. Whenever you are facing problems, look to your left or right and talk to one another. Let us not discriminate, but instead embrace one another,” said the Prime Minister.
He further assured students that the government remains committed to enhancing the education system, ensuring that every student has access to free education.
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