Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba has called for a resolute commitment to ensuring access to quality education throughout Africa, emphasising the substantial benefits the continent stands to gain from investing in education and its youth, as outlined in the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
President Mbumba joined fellow Namibians and the wider African continent in celebrating the International Day of the African Child. In a statement released on Sunday, Mbumba highlighted the day’s significance by recalling the bravery of young South Africans who protested against an unjust education system.
“On this day, more than four decades ago, young South Africans took to the streets of Soweto to protest the enforcement of a discriminatory education system which would have resulted in the displacement of cultural values and language,” he stated.
Underscoring the theme of this year’s commemoration, “Education for all children in Africa: the time is now,” President Mbumba stressed the necessity of ensuring access to quality education for all children across the continent.
Reflecting on Namibia’s achievements, Mbumba noted the country’s significant progress in providing free primary and secondary education. He highlighted that the education sector receives the largest portion of the national budget, demonstrating Namibia’s prioritisation of education as a cornerstone of sustainable development. Furthermore, the government continues to expand educational infrastructure to enhance the learning experience for all children.
However, the president acknowledged the ongoing challenges within the country’s education sector. He cited economic barriers, infrastructural deficits, gender disparities, quality issues, and cultural practices as obstacles that require a multi-stakeholder approach to overcome.
“Despite the significant progress we have made, there are miles we are yet to walk,” he emphasised, calling for continued investment and policy enactment to support the education sector.
The International Day of the African Child is commemorated annually on June 16, honouring the memory of the Soweto uprising and recognising the ongoing struggles and achievements in advancing children’s rights across the continent.
As Africa reflects on the strides made and the challenges ahead, President Mbumba’s call to action serves as a reminder of the critical importance of education in shaping a prosperous future for the continent.
