Erongo primary learners benefit from Early Learner Assistance scheme

The Governor of the Erongo Region, Hon Cleophas Mutjaviua joined the learners of the JP Brand Primary School this week to celebrate the assistance they receive from uranium explorer, Bannerman Resouces Namibia.

The governor complimented Bannerman with its Early Learner Assistance scheme saying that although the company is only at the exploration stage, it is committed to help the children of Erongo. “You can show your appreciation by working hard, learning, listening, and taking care of these gifts you are given” he cautioned the learners.

Walvis Bay Rural councillor, Hon Nangolo, the Ministry of Education’s Regional Inspector, and JP Brand Principal Mr. Keib joined the Regional Governor at the event, along with teachers and parents of pupils at JP Brand.

Werner Ewald, Managing Director of Bannerman Resources, shared the history and motivation for the Early Learner Assistance Scheme: “We encourage our employees to contribute their ideas and expertise not only in our mining operations, but also to the company’s goals of reaching out to communities in areas need of assistance. Sixteen schools in the Erongo Region are supported by Bannerman with this year’s Early Learner Assistance. To date, some 2000 learners have benefitted from the scheme in the form of uniforms and other clothing.

Earlier in the week, Mr. I.F. Gauchab, the Principal of Elifas #Goseb Primary School, said “Almost 70% of our learners are in need of assistance. We are grateful to Bannerman for extending a hand of assistance to our most vulnerable learners.”

This year, at several schools, parents accompanied their children to the handing over events reflecting a strong show of support for the Ministry of Education’s message that parents should be more involved in their children’s education.

One parent in attendance said: “Most parents are unemployed or looking after the children of family members who have died, so there is not enough money to do everything. When it is a question of putting food on the table or buying school clothes, you buy food.”

Grensencia Harases from the Ministry of Education, who traveled to the schools with the Bannerman team, said, “Most of these children won’t be able to sleep tonight, they will be so excited to go to school the next day in a full, new uniform. It will make them feel proud and boost