Learners in Gochas, Hardap region, now have a safe place to live and learn following the official handover and inauguration of the Namaqua Kalahari Children's Hope Hostel on Tuesday.
The hostel complex was officially opened by education minister Sanet Steenkamp.
The minister described education as the backbone of national development and stressed the importance of providing learners with safe and supportive learning environments.
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The modern facility, valued at N$11.6 million, was donated by Foundawtion, a non-profit organisation based in Barcelona, Spain.
The project came to life after another organisation, Shoot for Change, reached out to Foundawtion following an initiative by Theo-Paulina Goliath, a retired principal of N. Mutschuana Primary School, who envisioned better living conditions for learners in the Gochas community.
"May this facility serve as a place of learning and a sanctuary for our children, empowering them to achieve their dreams and aspirations," she said. The hostel will accommodate 60 learners, 30 boys and 30 girls.
It includes a dining hall, a fully equipped kitchen with a reception area, a superintendent's house, staff flats, sick bays and a study room, creating a supportive environment for learners.
Speaking at the event, Steenkamp highlighted that housing learners in a secure environment reduces risks associated with long daily travel, including exposure to crime, rape and sexual abuse. She added that the hostel will allow learners to focus more on their studies and sports activities, both of which play an important role in their overall development.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Office of the Hardap Governor, regional council, education directorate under the leadership of Lewin, and Gerard Vries for his early involvement, alongside Asumptha Kaiden and Inspector Lawrence Moller.
She also thanked all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to ensure the project's success.
Steenkamp extended special appreciation to the donors from Spain, particularly Foundawtion and Shoot for Change, and praised Goliath for her dedication and vision in establishing a state-of-the-art hostel in Gochas.
