Kavango West region records 650 school dropouts in first semester

This information was shared at a 'Boy Child Engagement Session' in Nkurenkuru. Kavango West education director Pontianus Musore attributed the dropouts to economic hardships, with some parents prioritizing household responsibilities over education. Musore noted that boys are dropping out more than girls, often to engage in temporary work such as cattle herding and selling fish to support their families.

Other contributing factors include child-headed households, poor parental involvement, limited supervision, and the need for some pupils to care for younger siblings. The director also highlighted challenges in rural areas, such as limited hostel facilities and long distances to school, leading to fatigue, late arrivals, and absenteeism. Lack of discipline, alcohol and substance abuse, and abuse and neglect at home also affect pupils' emotional well-being and school participation.

Despite these issues, the region has performed well academically, ranking first at the Namibian Senior Secondary Certificate Advanced Subsidiary Level since 2023 and third at the ordinary level in the 2025 academic year. To combat the dropout rate, Musore stated that the directorate is enhancing school-based motivation, counseling, and psychological support for pupils. Plans also include expanding mentorship and boy-child empowerment programs and strengthen