The Namibian Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture has directed all schools to hold special remembrance assemblies in honor of the late founding president, Sam Nujoma.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s executive director, Sanet Steenkamp, schools were instructed to organize commemorative activities where students and teachers could share reflections, poems, and historical insights on Nujoma’s role in Namibia’s development.
“Regional offices, in collaboration with regional councils, should organize a commemorative service for our late founding president on a date mutually agreed upon at the regional level,” Steenkamp stated.
Postponement of Events and Commemorative Activities
To mark the national period of mourning, the ministry has postponed all celebratory events, sports, and athletic gatherings until further notice. However, routine athletic training and practices will continue at the school level.
Schools have also been tasked with documenting their commemorative activities through videos and pictures, which will be submitted to regional offices and compiled for national distribution.
In addition to assemblies, schools will conduct cleaning campaigns, beautify their surroundings, and plant trees, shrubs, and flowers in memory of the late leader.
Flags at Half-Mast and National Mourning Measures
As part of the national mourning, Namibian flags at all school establishments will be flown at half-mast, and a moment of silence will be observed at official meetings. Nujoma’s portrait will also be displayed at the main entrance of regional offices, accompanied by a book of condolences and candles.
The directive follows the official announcement of Nujoma’s passing, which has prompted national mourning and widespread tributes recognizing his contribution to Namibia’s independence and development.
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