Let the Sustainable Development Goals begin

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp said this week the Model UN as an extra-curricular activity for young people in the country as well as across the globe, enhances the educational levels by giving them a global educational experience.

Steenkamp spoke at the launch of the 6th Model United Nations Namibia (MUNNAM) High School Conference in Windhoek. The conference was opened by UN Resident Coordinator, Kiki Gbeho.

As one of the United Nation’s member states, Gbeho said that the mock debate game participants pave the way for the new adopted agenda as part of the UN Sustainable Development goals following the lapse of the Education for All goals.

The Education for all goals were replaced by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Goal 4 with the theme: “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”.

Gbeho said the agenda, was adopted by world communities that met at several occasions to review progress made and to prepare the new agenda after the unfinished business of the Education for All which lasted from the year 2000 to 2015.

“In Namibia Basic education is a right for every child, but with this statement I would also like to remind all of you sitting here, that education is also a right and a responsibility that should not be taken for granted,” said Gbeho.

According to her education therefore should be at the forefront of everyone’s agenda as it does not only breed a competitive advantage in the job market by signaling productivity to employers but it also enhances socio-economic development.

Speaking to the participants, Steenkamp said,“I am very much convinced that with your full participation in this conference, the experience you gain will heighten your global awareness”.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Hon. Katrina Hanse-Himarwa highlighted on the achievements Namibia made in the delivery of the Education for All where she also pledged Namibia’s commitment towards the SDG of developing education.

“As global citizens we strive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The conference will help you to take a step in achieving SDG 4,” she said said, adding that with quality education, as a pillar for development, it enables the members of the population regardless of their socio economic status to achieve individual success and improved welfare.