Ombili Primary School, nestled in the heart of the Ombili Informal Settlement on the outskirts Otjiwarongo near B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine, has become a beacon of hope and progress since its establishment in 2019. Serving a diverse learner population of 1,319 learners with the dedication of 40 teaching staff members, the school has made remarkable strides in both infrastructure and academic achievements.
In its early days, Ombili Primary faced significant challenges, with learners attending classes in military tents under harsh weather conditions. Recognizing the dire need for proper facilities, B2Gold Namibia stepped in with substantial support. By April 2020, the first phase of construction was completed, introducing eight classrooms, an administration block, a staffroom, a storage room, four ablution blocks consisting of 64 toilets and handwashing stations, a feeding shelter, a vegetable garden, and a secure 750-metre perimeter fence. This development not only provided a safe and conducive learning environment but also marked a new chapter for the community.
Ombili Primary School, before and after construction
Since the beginning of its involvement, B2Gold Namibia has invested a total of NAD 19,000,000.00 (USD 1 million) in the school’s infrastructure.
As part of efforts to bridge the digital divide, B2Gold Namibia sponsored the installation of an EduVision smart classroom in 2024, equipping the school with state-of-the-art digital learning tools and online access. Learners now have opportunities to conduct research, participate in interactive lessons, and access virtual learning platforms, bringing them on par with learners in more technologically advanced schools.
The Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture remains committed to ensuring the smooth operation of Ombili Primary School by providing 40 qualified teachers and covering essential running costs. This ongoing support is crucial in maintaining stability, growth, and academic excellence.
Additionally, the school feeding program has become a lifeline for many learners, offering at least one nutritious meal daily. This initiative has played a critical role in improving learner concentration, reducing absenteeism, and enhancing overall academic performance by ensuring that children can focus on their studies without the burden of food insecurity.
To further enhance the learning environment, tree donations have been made to beautify the school grounds and provide much-needed shade for learners. These trees not only improve the aesthetics of the school but also create a natural cooling solution, making outdoor activities more comfortable for learners.
As part of its responsible exit strategy, B2Gold Namibia has strategically invested in long-term community development initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of its support extend beyond mining operations. The school remains a key beneficiary of this commitment, with funding dedicated to infrastructure, educational resources, and sustainability projects, mitigating the socio-economic impact of the company’s eventual transition.
Looking ahead, B2Gold Namibia has committed to further investments in 2025 to improve learning conditions. Planned developments include the construction of a library to promote reading culture and research, a computer centre to enhance digital literacy, and a multi-purpose school hall for assemblies, events, and extracurricular activities. Additional investments will include a new guard room and security system, a dedicated playground for Grade 0 learners, and new 150-metre boundary wall on the eastern side of the school to replace the existing razor-wire fencing. These projects, with an estimated budget of NAD 12,600,000 (USD 660,000), will enrich the educational environment and address existing infrastructural gaps. This brings the total investment by B2Gold Namibia in Ombili Primary School to NAD 31,600,000 (USD 1.66 million).
2024 Achievements
Despite facing daily challenges, Ombili Primary School has excelled in various academic, cultural, and extracurricular activities:
- Regional Readathon Competition: Several learners won prizes for their outstanding reading performances.
- Cluster Debate Competition: Three learners secured second place, finishing just behind Osire Primary School.
- Heritage Week: The school’s Rukwangali Cultural Group was recognized by regional management for an outstanding performance.
- Science Fair: Two learners advanced to the national level, winning silver and bronze medals
- Orwetoveni Annual Sports Tournament: While learners did not secure a win, they showed significant improvement, thanks to dedicated coaching.
- EduVision Smartboard Installation: A digital classroom sponsored by B2Gold Namibia was introduced, providing learners access to online learning resources and research tools.
- New Science Laboratory: Enhancing STEM education and practical learning.
The transformation of Ombili Primary School stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between B2Gold Namibia, the Ministry of Education, and the community. With continued investment and commitment, the school remains steadfast in its mission to provide quality education and support to its learners, embodying resilience and hope for a brighter future.