By Staff Reporter
OKAHANDJA, June 17 — The second Bank Windhoek Mathematics Workshop for grade eight and nine teachers took place at The Rock Lodge outside Okahandja from Friday, June 14, to Sunday, June 16, 2024. This event, a collaboration between Bank Windhoek, the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture (MoEAC), and the African Leadership Institute (ALI), successfully equipped 40 mathematics teachers from the Oshikoto, Kunene, ǁKharas, and Erongo regions. The workshop aimed to enhance teachers’ abilities to convey mathematical concepts and ignite their learners’ comprehension and passion for mathematics.
This public-private partnership provides a platform for teachers to receive training on various topics and soft skills, share their experiences, and build solid foundations for learning and implementing success stories. Teachers engage in discussions and presentations to identify solutions for better planning and teaching methods.
Speaking at the workshop, Bank Windhoek’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Sponsorships, Bronwyn Moody, emphasized the bank’s commitment to fostering genuine and authentic relationships beyond banking. “Our interest lies in investing in Namibia’s future. We hope that our investment in these cognitive stimulation activities goes a long way towards supporting the development of numeracy skills in the Namibian education system,” she said. Moody encouraged the teachers to use the knowledge gained to collectively improve education in their regions.
Dr. Chrisna von Geriecke Fourie from ALI highlighted that the workshop covered many relatable topics for mathematics teachers, including assessments, evaluation, marking, and the challenges of teaching. She noted that these topics were highly valued by the teachers. “The workshop helps them understand that being a mathematics teacher is not just about following the curriculum but involves unlocking the potential of the Namibian child. Teachers are equipped with practical mathematics training focusing on challenging areas, as well as soft skills to improve human and social capital,” she explained.
Thomas Swaartbooi, mathematics education officer for the ǁKharas region, expressed his gratitude for attending the workshop. “I am happy that the workshop combined mathematics and soft skills training, which adds to my professional and personal growth. The greatest highlight was learning how to have a soft heart, tough mind, and upright character,” he said.
Maria Nehale, a mathematics teacher from the Oshikoto region, described the workshop as productive and enjoyable. “I have learned new ways of doing things and look forward to returning to the Oshikoto region to share what I have learned. This workshop has opened our minds and educated us on information we did not have before,” she said.
The second workshop followed the initial one held in February 2024. After the first workshop, teachers from the Khomas, Omaheke, Hardap, and Otjozondjupa regions greatly appreciated the topics discussed.
The series of workshops demonstrates a sustained commitment to enhancing the quality of mathematics education across Namibia, aiming to equip teachers with the skills and knowledge needed to inspire and educate the next generation of learners.
