Namibia and EU Deepen Cooperation on Education Reform

Namibia and EU Deepen Cooperation on Education Reform. A significant step in Namibia’s education reform was marked this week as Hon. Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC), met with Her Excellency Ana Beatriz Martins, European Union Ambassador to Namibia, for a High-Level Policy Dialogue.

Hon. Ballotti expressed appreciation for the EU’s continued support, particularly in advancing Early Childhood Development (ECD) and foundational learning. He emphasized that ECD remains central to nation-building and noted that all targets under the Education Sector Reform Contract (ESRC) have been met or exceeded. He further highlighted Namibia’s readiness for the 2027 transfer of the ECD mandate, signaling confidence in the country’s progress.

Ambassador Martins commended Namibia’s government, especially the Ministries of Education, Arts and Culture, and Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, for their bold steps to integrate ECD into the mainstream education system. She noted that the EU is proud to partner in this transformative journey, aligning reforms with National Development Plan 6 (NDP6).

The Ambassador highlighted tangible achievements, including a 25.6% increase in ECD attendance, surpassing the target of 15%, and the enrolment of 4,468 additional children in pre-primary education, exceeding goals by nearly 20%. She also pointed to the provision of government meals to 51,095 children, more than triple the initial target, and the training of 297 educators, surpassing the target of 280.

While acknowledging progress, Ambassador Martins stressed the importance of strong systems, effective management, and ongoing dialogue to ensure long-term impact. She concluded by reaffirming the EU’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s education sector and future partnerships across humanitarian assistance, economic development, and environmental sustainability.