Namibia: School Principals Urge Students to Avoid Bullying as Academic Year Begins

As schools reopen for the new academic year on Monday, principals across Namibia are calling on students to demonstrate respectful behaviour and refrain from bullying, particularly targeting peers from less privileged backgrounds.

Anna Enkono, principal of Othika Combined School, described bullying as a growing concern that can negatively affect victims’ academic performance, sometimes even leading to school dropouts. She emphasized the role of parents in instilling values, saying:

“Education starts at home. Children who are well-disciplined and taught ethical behaviour will not harm, disrespect, or demean others.”

At Othika Combined, rules against bullying are clearly outlined at the start of each year. The school also collaborates with police officers and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare to educate students on the consequences of bullying.

Fortune Simbarashe, principal of Gardner Academy, reiterated his school’s zero-tolerance policy on bullying. Students found bullying others face suspension or expulsion. Simbarashe highlighted the social impact, saying victims often withdraw from peers or retaliate against others. He advised students to respond calmly or walk away rather than retaliate and encouraged parents to reinforce values at home.

At Mulongeni Primary School, principal Jannus Haukongo noted that bullying victims often develop a fear of being alone, and the school punishes offenders by restricting participation in activities like sports, assigning them chores, or withholding breaks.

Elizabeth Iyambo, a teacher at Delta School, explained that bullying can significantly reduce a child’s self-esteem. The school addresses it through detention and corrective tasks on school grounds, while emphasizing respect and empathy. She urged parents to teach children not to mock peers for wearing old uniforms or torn shoes.

Edda Bohn, deputy executive director at the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, stressed that the Basic Education Act prohibits all forms of physical and mental violence, including bullying. She highlighted the importance of consistent parenting, secure attachments, and psychosocial support, including life skills education, counselling, and mandatory reporting of serious incidents.

“When children feel unsafe, they may withdraw or remain silent, leading to emotional distress,” Bohn added.

As the new school year begins, principals and educators are united in the message: Bullying has no place in schools, and both parents and teachers play key roles in fostering safe, respectful learning environments.