The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) expresses serious concern over recent conduct by learners from two Khomas Region schools at a private event, involving blackface and the use of racial slurs shared on social media. Such behaviour is unacceptable and contradicts the values of unity, equality, and respect enshrined in the Namibian Constitution.
This act carries a painful historical legacy and threatens national unity and reconciliation. The Ministry is clear: there is no justification for such acts, which are unlawful under the Racial Discrimination Prohibition Act of 1991. The law prohibits acts that humiliate or demean individuals or groups based on race or ethnicity. Painting faces black and using derogatory language is not a costume or a joke and will be treated seriously.
Schools must be spaces for both academic learning and moral and social development. This incident highlights the urgent need to strengthen values-based education and social cohesion in all schools, public and private.
The Ministry has taken decisive measures including:
– Deputy Minister Hon. Dino Balotti met with the learners, their parents, and school management; learners expressed remorse, and disciplinary and remedial actions will follow.
– A report is being prepared detailing disciplinary measures and mandating a restorative process involving affected learners and families.
– The learners will participate in community service.
– The Ministry will engage all schools to enhance values-based education, anti-racism efforts, and lessons on Namibia’s racial discrimination history, formalized through a forthcoming circular.
The Ministry urges principals, teachers, and parents to partner actively in this effort to promote true peace and reconciliation. Education must foster not only academic achievement but a deep understanding of our shared humanity.
MEIYSAC remains committed to working with schools, parents, and learners to confront such incidents with honesty, accountability, and learning, safeguarding Namibia’s hard-won peace and unity.
