In a bid to address critical challenges in mathematics education in Namibia, a transformative project has been launched to empower senior secondary mathematics teachers and learners in the Omaheke and Hardap regions. This initiative, spearheaded by the Namibia Mathematics Initiative (NMI), aims to improve student outcomes in Grades 10 and 11 and increase qualification rates for advanced Grade 12 studies.
Through the generous sponsorship of N$79 000 by Nedbank Namibia, and other supporting partners, 49 senior secondary mathematics teachers received comprehensive training in 2024. Each teacher was provided with 42 learner guides, ensuring the project directly impacts over 3 000 learners in Grades 10 and 11, with an additional estimated 2 000 junior secondary learners benefiting indirectly.
The project includes hands-on workshops focused on addressing gaps in teacher knowledge and skills, introducing practical teaching approaches, and alleviating the fear of mathematics through NMI’s innovative Map/Money Maths guides. Workshops in Gobabis, Rehoboth, and Mariental highlighted unique challenges faced by educators, such as lack of resources, learner discipline, and the impact of poverty on education.
In Omaheke Region, twenty-two teachers from all eleven senior secondary schools participated in a three-day workshop held in Gobabis. Collaboration between senior and novice teachers ensured a productive learning environment. The scarcity of basic materials like stationery was evident, with teachers expressing gratitude for the practical tools included in the learner guides.
While in the Hardap Region, workshops in Rehoboth and Mariental, were attended by 26 teachers and one mathematics senior subject regional advisor, who emphasized solutions to common teaching obstacles, including the availability of textbooks and student engagement challenges.
Speaking on the significance of this initiative, Nedbank Namibia’s Executive Head of Marketing and Communications, Gernot de Klerk, remarked, “Investing in education is investing in the future of Namibia. Supporting projects like this aligns with our purpose of being money experts who do good, to empower young minds and break barriers to academic success. We are proud to contribute to an initiative that not only equips teachers with essential skills but also ensures that thousands of learners can realize their potential in Mathematics and beyond,” he said.
This collaborative effort showcases the impact of partnerships between the private sector, educators, and regional authorities in addressing pressing educational challenges. By fostering a culture of learning and innovation, this project promises lasting benefits for Namibia’s youth and the country’s future development.