Bank Windhoek, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture and the African Leadership Institute (ALI), successfully hosted the first Grade 8 and 9 Mathematics teachers’ workshop for 2026 from Friday, 6 February, until Sunday, 8 February 2026 at the Rock Lodge outside Okahandja. The event forms part of an ongoing intervention aimed at strengthening Mathematics competency and personal development for Junior Secondary teachers across Namibia. A total of thirty-nine teachers attended the workshop, representing the regions of Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West, Oshikoto and Otjozondjupa.
Speaking at the event, Bank Windhoek’s Executive Officer of Marketing and Corporate Communication Services, Jacquiline Pack, highlighted the crucial role of educators in shaping Namibia’s future. “At Bank Windhoek, we believe that building a strong nation begins in the classroom,” she said, underlining that Mathematics remains one of the most essential subjects in preparing young people for a rapidly changing world.
Rauna Shuungula, Chief Education Officer for Science and Mathematics at the Ministry, attended the workshop, underscoring the government’s commitment to elevating national education outcomes. She expressed appreciation for Bank Windhoek’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Namibia’s education sector.
“Bank Windhoek’s support has been instrumental in making this training possible. Their investment in the professional development of our teachers is a powerful testament to their dedication to shaping a brighter future for our nation,” Shuungula said. She also expressed gratitude to ALI for their pivotal role in organising the programme and for integrating transformative soft skills sessions that inspire educators beyond the academic curriculum. ALI's Training Director, Dr Chrisna von Gericke-Fourie, praised the workshop's success and reaffirmed the institute's appreciation for the ongoing partnership with Bank Windhoek.
Investing in mathematics
The initiative, now in its expanded phase, follows Bank Windhoek’s support for the 2023 Grade 4 Mathematics training, during which targeted interventions demonstrably improved learning outcomes. That success paved the way for the introduction of Junior Secondary Mathematics Training Workshops, developed in partnership with the Ministry and ALI.
Over the past two years, close to 200 dedicated Mathematics teachers have participated in training designed to enhance not only subject content knowledge but also assessment methods, classroom administration, leadership competencies, improve learner engagement, and foster character development and financial well-being.
Asked why the Bank supports the initiative, Pack said that mathematics literacy is more than an academic requirement; it is a critical life skill. “If we want to grow a strong, inclusive economy, we must start by equipping learners through our teachers with the confidence and problem-solving skills that mathematics develops. As a result, this initiative is our long-term investment in that future,” she said.
Participating teachers who spoke on behalf of the participants, namely Nicolas Katombera, Johannes Angula, Johannes Muruti, Secilia Simon and Fransina Shivute, agreed that the initiative empowered them personally and professionally. They shared that they are motivated to teach the Namibian child how to excel in life using mathematics as a life skills tool.
Pack concluded by reemphasising that Bank Windhoek will continue to support the development of Mathematical skills among learners and teachers. She reminded the teachers that they carry the power to shape futures, and Bank Windhoek is proud to walk this journey with them.
The 2026 training programme reflects a continued commitment by government, private sector partners, and educational institutions to elevate the quality of Mathematics teaching nationwide and to empower educators with the skills needed to transform learning outcomes. The February workshop marks the fifth successful intervention since the programme's inception. As Bank Windhoek continues its commitment to supporting quality education in Namibia, two additional workshops are planned for 2026, aiming to extend the programme’s reach and impact.
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