WINDHOEK—The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture has announced adjustments to the school calendar to align with the upcoming Presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for 27 November 2024.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Sanet Steenkamp, the Executive Director of the Ministry, outlined the changes in a press statement on Tuesday. “The last day of school for learners has been moved from 06 December 2024 to 22 November 2024, while the last day for teachers, hostel staff, and institutional workers has shifted from 09 December 2024 to 06 December 2024,” Steenkamp stated. She also confirmed that school reports will be issued on 06 December 2024.

The adjustment means that schools will need to compensate for eight lost school days. Steenkamp indicated that this would be managed through additional non-examination day sessions, including afternoon lessons and Saturday school, chosen based on what best suits each school’s circumstances. The arrangements are to be coordinated with the school community under the guidance of education inspectors and school principals.

Steenkamp has called on regional directors, inspectors, principals, school board members, and other stakeholders to take note of these changes and collaborate to ensure the academic year concludes smoothly despite the disruptions.