Oshana rural school improves performance

Oshana regional education director Helena Amukana has said that rural primary schools are outperforming their urban counterparts in the region in some cases.

Amukana, who spoke at a recent regional awards ceremony held at Nengushe Secondary School in Oshana Region, said when parents approach her office looking for recommendations, she gives feedback based on school performances.

She said although parents often prefer sending their children to urban schools, rural schools frequently achieve better results.

Amukana highlighted the progress made by Nengushe Primary School, which, although it had been underperforming, has shown a 29% improvement rate.

She also praised the school’s thriving vegetable garden, which supports the school feeding programme and ensures that students are well fed and focused.

Committed

Nengushe school principal Natangwe Hamakali said rural teachers demonstrate high levels of commitment despite the limited resources at their disposal.

He said "rural school teachers can stay up to 16:00 at school, whereas in most urban schools, teachers knock off early."

While many factors are at play, Hamakali said urban learners are also exposed to more negative influences, such as drugs and alcohol, which may contribute to their poor performance.

Recognise performance

"It is our responsibility to make sure that we recognise performance at different levels," Amukana stressed.

She urged teachers to recognise the performance of learners in the classroom and said through recognition, learners will be motivated.

Amukana also asked teachers to work with what they have and to avoid blaming others.

She also called on parents to do their part to provide support in kind or in cash by making voluntary contributions to schools, stressing that education is a collective responsibility.