An Advocate’s Call
By: June Shimuoshili
As someone who works closely with young girls through my volunteer work, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges that keep them from finishing school. Too many drop out not because they lack ability, but because of circumstances beyond their control—teen pregnancies, lack of funding, and being treated as less of a priority compared to their brothers. In rural areas, girls are expected to work in the fields during the rainy season to support their families, sacrificing precious school time. Period poverty is another silent barrier. When girls cannot afford sanitary pads, many stay home during menstruation, missing lessons for days at a time.
These realities make it clear: supporting girl education is not just about providing classrooms. We need to tackle the social and cultural factors that pull girls away from learning. Parents must be educated on the importance of keeping their daughters in school, even when times are hard. Traditional authorities should step forward to champion education for girls in their communities. And our government—across ministries, not just education—must do more to ensure that resources, funding, and policies truly support the girl child.
Investing in girls’ education is not a favor. It is about protecting their rights, empowering future leaders, and breaking cycles of poverty. When we give girls the chance to stay in school, we give Namibia the chance to grow stronger, more equal, and more just.
