Parents in Namibia have been urged to prioritize their children's education during the upcoming long school holidays. The call was made by Salome Kambala, the Deputy Minister of Education, Arts, and Culture, who expressed concern that some learners might fall behind in their studies due to the lengthy break. Kambala emphasized the importance of utilizing the holiday period productively, encouraging parents to engage their children in educational activities.
The school holidays, which commence on November 11, have raised concerns among education stakeholders. Kambala noted that some learners might struggle to cope with the academic demands upon their return to school. She encouraged parents to create a conducive learning environment at home, ensuring that their children remain engaged and motivated throughout the break. This, she stressed, is crucial for maintaining academic momentum.
Kambala also emphasized the need for parents to be involved in their children's education. She urged them to monitor their children's activities, ensure they are not engaging in harmful behavior, and provide guidance and support where necessary. The Deputy Minister also highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between leisure and educational activities during the holidays.
Some parents have expressed concerns about the impact of the long school holidays on their children's education. Paulus Mbangu, a parent, noted that the lengthy break might affect his child's academic performance. He suggested that the school holidays should be shortened to ensure that learners remain focused on their studies. Mbangu also emphasized the need for parents to be proactive in engaging their children in educational activities.
Education experts have also weighed in on the issue. Mingan Wilbard, a teacher, suggested that parents should utilize the holiday period to engage their children in extracurricular activities that promote learning. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between academic and non-academic activities. Wilbard also urged parents to be aware of their children's whereabouts during the holidays.
The Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture has also urged parents to take an active role in their children's education. Edda Bohn, a senior official in the ministry, noted that the education sector is committed to ensuring that learners receive a quality education. She encouraged parents to work in partnership with educators to ensure that learners achieve their full potential.
The long school holidays have sparked a national debate, with some stakeholders calling for a review of the education calendar. However, the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture has maintained that the current calendar is necessary to ensure that learners have adequate breaks. The debate is set to continue, with stakeholders seeking solutions to ensure that learners are not disadvantaged by the lengthy break.
Key points
- The Namibian government has urged parents to prioritize their children's education during the upcoming long school holidays.
- The school holidays, which commence on November 11, have raised concerns among education stakeholders.
- Education experts have suggested that parents should utilize the holiday period to engage their children in extracurricular activities that promote learning.
