By Our Correspondent
The Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Grade 11 high achievers at Sunshine Private College in Eros, Windhoek, talked about their 2025 examinations results with excitement and great interest in an interviews conducted at the school recently. The academic stars enthusiastically shared a range of factors that enabled them to score high grades that have enabled them to proceed to higher levels in their education journeys.
What struck me most was the similarity of the enabling factors that the learners attributed to their impressive individual performances. Ranking high was that the learners took the responsibility of studying hard on their own. They said they knew that the grades they were in, meant that they had to priotise hard work to come up with good results. Having told themselves that receiving good grades was a result of disciple and focus, they were prepared for the sweet victory in the end. To show seriousness about their studies, the learners said they did not miss classes unless they were sick.
Beaming with joy and excitement, Thabiso Gambe who earned 39 points in sciences at AS level remarked: “I advise AS students to start working seriously from today. Today is the day you create your tomorrow. Start working hard now because if you wait until it is too late, you will not cope with the volume of advanced level studies.” Thabiso has since successfully registered for the Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering degree at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).
It was noted that overwhelming encouragement and support from parents from parents and teachers played a big role in achieving high passes. In most cases, learners said their parents allowed them to make their own decisions about their studies and gave advice where necessary. Parents made sure the learners had all the materials needed to study. “My parents have always ensured I had the comfort I needed in my academic year; they didn’t pressure me, they trusted me in making decisions,” said Natangwe Iifo who scored 30 points in Grade 11.
Also, relevant textbooks are an irreplaceable resource for success in education. The learners said they had good adequate books at sunshine Private College. They were privileged to have qualified and hard working teachers who taught well and provided them with notes in all the subjects. This made it easier for students to study the subjects before examinations.
It also came to light that a resourceful school environment, equipment and materials add advantage to learners and enhance chances of scoring good results.
For Irja Netumbo Aukoongo, the well-furnished science laboratory was her magic hide-out for success: “I was practically raised in the lab,” said Irja. “It was my safe place, my home. The warmth that was built in there with my fellow classmates and teacher was indescribable.” The importance of attachment to a safe environment cannot be overemphasised.
As a result, Irja collected 37 points in her AS studies and has also registered for the Bachelor of Science in Engineering at NUST. “I can’t wait to see what life has in store for me at NUST especially that I chose to study engineering; I also feel proud and grateful because being accepted reminds me that my hard work and discipline paid off,” added the bubbly Irja.
For Esther Kalimbo who harvested 29 points in Grade11, asking questions in class for better understanding and attending weekend classes in addition to the normal classes were key in understanding concepts in her subjects. “Also keep serious and focussed friends around you who can build and help you in your studies. Study groups also helped me,” explained Ester.
Sunshine is a unique community where every learner is noticed and assisted accordingly. – personilised attention given to learners
And Toini Alweendo with 30 points in Grade 11 had this to say: “The amount of effort, sleepless nights you had over the course of the year will eventually pay off and your results will show. Do not curse or hate yourself because you failed one test; look at it in a positive way to improve. Your duty to learn from your mistakes; stand strong and overcome challenges.”
When preparing for examinations, learners were advised to take care of your mental health, remove negative thoughts and stay positive through hard times. Even when students receive bad results, they are encouraged to remain positive and avid self-blame. We have seen that self blame has caused unnecessary loss of lives. Parents and siblings should offer comfort and counselling to students when they do not make the pass grades. Above all, students should consult their teachers and principals who are trained to offer counselling.
Sunshine opened its doors for secondary education in 2018. Its first Advanced Subsidiary class was in 2023.
