WINDHOEK: While addressing the 6th sitting of the Children’s Parliament, Deputy Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Faustina Caley remarked that digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
The 6th session of Children’s Parliament convened for the second day here on Tuesday, where the deputy minister addressed the young leaders on ‘Transforming Education in Namibia: The Future.’
‘To transform education in Namibia, we must wholeheartedly embrace technology and innovation,’ Caley said.
She remarked that the Namibian government has always valued the power and impact of education, noting: ‘As we look to the future however, we must acknowledge that the world around us is changing at an unprecedented pace. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by rapid technological advancements, is reshaping economies, industries and societies. In this dynamic landscape, it is imperative that our education system evolves to meet the demands of the 21st century.’
Caley further acknowledged that there is a nee
d for classrooms to be equipped with modern tools and resources that enable students to navigate the digital world. She added that through integrating technology into the curriculum, students can access a wealth of information, to foster critical thinking, problem solving and innovation, and prepare them for the relevant occupations of the future.
‘Every child, regardless of their background and circumstances, deserves access to quality inclusive education. We must work with no effort spared to bridge the gaps that exist in our education system, ensuring that rural and marginalised communities have the same opportunities as those in urban areas. By prioritising equity we can create a more just and prosperous society where every Namibian has the chance to thrive,’ she said.
Caley further said collaboration is critical to cope with 21st century challenges; challenges such as climate change, rising inequalities or resource limitations, adding that the Fourth Industrial Revolution should not find Namibians lagg
ing behind.
The deputy minister argued that through teamwork, synergies and alignment, the challenges facing education can be turned into opportunities.
Source: The Namibia News Agency