Nghipondoka Launches Digital School Pilot Project
By Veronica Amaral
Education, Arts and Culture Minister Anna Nghipondoka launched the Digital School Pilot Project today, an innovative initiative supported by the United Arab Emirates Digital School and the World Food Programme (WFP).
The launch event occurred in Okahandja, marking a significant milestone in Namibia’s journey towards digital education.
The Digital School Pilot Project aims to extend its impact beyond Namibia, benefiting neighbouring countries such as Angola, Zambia, Lesotho, Madagascar, and South Africa. Nghipondoka highlighted the project’s potential as a beacon of hope and progress in the shared pursuit of educational excellence across the region.
“One school per region has been identified as the digital pilot school, except for Khomas and Hardap Regions, which have two schools each. In total, 16 schools will benefit from this project, with one school in Hardap serving as a resource school,” Nghipondoka stated.
She elaborated on the project’s objectives, emphasizing its ambitious and far-reaching goals. The Digital School (TDS) Pilot Project seeks to promote digital education and build a model for digital transformation that empowers students.
Additionally, TDS and WFP will work closely with the Ministry of Education and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.
Nghipondoka noted that extensive consultations with the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture (MoEAC) were conducted during the project’s design phase. These consultations included discussions on areas of intervention and the selection of schools to ensure that all project activities align with Namibia’s educational framework, curriculum standards, and regulatory requirements.
“TDS will maintain open communication channels with targeted schools, the Ministry, and the field officer to effectively address any emerging issues or significant challenges,” Nghipondoka added.
She also highlighted the importance of bilateral coordination between TDS, the implementing partner, and the content preparation party. This collaboration will facilitate the exchange of recommendations and suggestions for refining the digitized content.
Digital transformation is a key focus of the 2022 National Conference on Education Implementation Plan (2023-2030), Nghipondoka emphasized. The Ministry of Education is committed to this vision, with plans to roll out ICT devices to schools, including fully furnished computer labs and interactive touch screens for newly added Advanced Subsidiary Schools. Additionally, the Ministry plans to introduce Smart Televisions to schools, focusing on Primary Schools.
“This commitment underscores our dedication to evolving with the times and equipping our learners and teachers with the best tools for success,” Nghipondoka said.
The Minister congratulated the 47 teachers who recently graduated from their online digital training. “Your dedication and commitment to embracing digital skills will play a crucial role in advancing education within your classrooms and schools. Your journey does not end here. I encourage you to use your newly acquired skills to enhance your teaching practices and share your knowledge with your colleagues,” she concluded.