Hanse-Himarwa wants safety first as learners return to school

WINDHOEK, 16 MAY  – With the second term starting on Monday, Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Katrina Hanse-Himarwa has urged parents to ensure that their children are taken back to school safely.
Learners who attend school away from home are expected to return to the school hostels this weekend.
Delivering her ‘Travel safe and welcome back to school message’ here on Wednesday, Hanse-Himarwa said learners’ safety is one of the ministry’s main priorities.
She said this responsibility is shared with parents, the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA) and Namibian Police Force.
“I also call upon all parents and drivers who will be traveling with our learners to ensure that all learners buckle up during their journeys,” Hanse-Himarwa said.
The minister also referenced an MVA information booklet, which says learners should not be transported in open pick-ups since it compromises their safety.
MVA Acting Chief Corporate Affairs, Sidney Boois during the same event revealed that about 16 per cent of road fatalities every year, are school-going children.
“The MVA Fund therefore implores all motorists to be extra vigilant and to ensure safety, especially around schools,” Boois said.
The minister also granted schools permission to participate in the nationwide clean-up campaign on the afternoons of 22 and 23 May to allow for learners who may be traveling on 24 May.
“A clean and tidy school environment conveys a message of caring to the school community and demonstrates positive energy directed at learning and teaching,” Hanse-Himarwa said.
The clean-up campaign will take place next Friday.

NAMPA