Swakopmund: Erongo Governor Natalia |Goagoses has emphasised the importance of initiatives that restore dignity and discipline among learners, stating that such efforts are critical to improving education outcomes in the region. |Goagoses made the remarks during the handover of 54 pairs of school shoes and other items by the 4x4 Initiative Foundation in Swakopmund on Thursday, where she reaffirmed the Erongo Regional leadership's commitment to supporting community-driven programmes that complement government interventions.
According to Namibia Press Agency, |Goagoses stressed that education is a collective responsibility that requires the active involvement of parents, communities, and educators, not just the government. She emphasized that no learner in the Erongo Region should be sent home due to a lack of school shoes or an inability to pay voluntary school fees. She urged school principals to work closely with communities and her office to address learners' needs.
'We must ensure that every child is in class, learning with dignity. If there are challenges, let us resolve them together as a community,' |Goagoses said. The governor commended the 4x4 Initiative Foundation for its targeted focus on the boy child through leadership camps and mentorship programmes, noting that the initiative is helping to build resilience, confidence, and a sense of responsibility among young Namibians.
She further announced that the Erongo Regional Council has pledged N.dollars 20 million towards expanding the foundation's citizenship and leadership programmes, describing the financial support as an investment in the future of the country's children. Established a decade ago, the 4x4 Initiative Foundation promotes small acts of kindness aimed at transforming lives and strengthening communities.
Founder Sidney Boois stated that, to date, more than 200 boys have benefited from the foundation's leadership training and life-coaching programmes, with parents playing a key role in reinforcing positive behavioural change at home. 'We are operating in a tough economic environment where many families are struggling with rising living costs. Providing school shoes is not just about footwear; it is about restoring dignity and ensuring learners come to school with confidence,' Boois said.
He called on individuals and businesses to contribute, even in small ways, to support vulnerable learners and help build stronger communities. Swakopmund Mayor Suamma Kautondokwa lauded the 4x4 Initiative for working closely with the municipality and local schools, saying its hands-on approach has exposed the real challenges faced by learners, teachers, and parents.