Chapter 14 - Visit to a Namibian School

While in Northern Namibia, Toto visited a local public school called Kayengona Combined School near Rundu. I thought you would be interested in learning about the students and school to compare to your own school experience.

I met several teachers, students (which they call "learners") and the very nice Principal, Mrs. Anna Mateya. The school goes from first to tenth grade. The first, second, and third graders are all taught in the local language, Romano. These students study natural science, Romano, English, math, environmental studies, handwriting, and religious & moral education. How are those different from your classes?

Starting in fourth grade, all classes are taught in English (except the Romano class, of course!) In grades four through seven, the learners also take classes in social studies and home ecology. Mrs. Mateya told me they are looking for pen pals who will write the students letters in English, to help them practice with native speakers. I have put the address below if you would like to be a pen pal with a student at the school.

The students were very happy and friendly. They wore uniforms to school. The felt privileged to be able to go to school, as they must pay fifty Namibian dollars (about seven US dollars) per year in school fees. As this area is a poor region of Namibia, many students cannot afford these school fees, and some can't even buy pens for their homework and exams. In fact, the principal told me that about half the students are orphans, since their parents sadly died from AIDS, an awful disease that has infected many people in this region. Part of the kids' education includes how to protect and prevent themselves from getting this disease.

School ends at 1pm. The teachers told me that many of the learners stay after school to get a free lunch, as many don't get enough food at home and are undernourished. The teachers have noticed that the kids pay better attention when they aren't hungry.

Many students also stay after school to do their homework, as they do not have electricity in their homes. We visited some of these homes, which are basically a group of round huts made of sticks and a mixture of dried mud and cow manure. The roof was usually dried grass. Some students must do their homework by candlelight at home when the sun goes down. Those whose families cannot afford candles stay after school to do their homework in the afternoon at school.

When I was a kid, I took breakfast, lunch and dinner--as well as electricity--for granted. Seeing these kids trying to learn under such difficult circumstances made me realize just how fortunate I was to have all these things and to get a good education. Hopefully these students will help you understand how blessed you are. I might have thought twice about complaining when my parents told me to eat my dinner and finish my homework if I'd met some hard working students who might not have parents, food or light, but who are still eager to learn.

Travel Questions on the Kayengona School:

1. In which part of Namibia is the Kayengona School?
2. What do they call students at the school?
3. In what language do they teach the first through third grade students?
4. What are the two extra classes the students take starting in fourth grade?
5. How much does it cost a student's family to send their child to school each year?
6. Why are so many students orphaned?
7. If students do not have electricity at home, what are the two ways they can do their homework?
8. What is a typical home made of in the area?

Global Nomad Questions about Schools in Namibia:

1. Draw a picture of what you think a Namibian homestead looks like.
2. Write a letter in English to a student at the school. You can ask a grown up to mail it to the principal below. She will make sure it gets to a student. Ask the student to write you back.
3. The school needs pens and children's books in English. Collect these at your home or classroom and send them to the Principal. The students will really appreciate your gifts.
   • Mrs., Anna Matenya, Principal
     Kayengona Combined School
     PO Box 2142
     Rundu, Namibia