Discipline And Respect: Pillars Of Namibia’s Schools

I am deeply concerned about the state of discipline in some of our schools and the growing challenges facing Namibia’s education system. Recent incidents highlight rising misconduct and question the effectiveness of current disciplinary measures. On 16 January 2025, The Namibian reported that drugs and alcohol were blamed for Kunene’s struggling schools.

The regional director of education, Sophia Fredericks, noted ill-disciplined pupils prone to substance abuse and absenteeism due to late nights in bars. Then on 28 February, residents of Kahenge held a candlelight vigil for Rosalia Andonyo, allegedly raped and murdered by a Grade 9 pupil at Kahenge Combined School. On 14 March, a pupil was arrested following a stabbing at De Duine Secondary School at Walvis Bay.