The second Bank Windhoek Mathematics Workshop for grade eight and nine teachers took place at The Rock Lodge outside Okahandja from Friday, 14 June to Sunday, 16 June 2024. A collaboration by Bank Windhoek, the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture (MoEAC) and the African Leadership Institute (ALI), the gathering successfully equipped 40 mathematics teachers from four regions, namely Oshikoto, Kunene, ǁKharas and Erongo regions. The event is designed to enhance teachers’ ability to convey mathematical concepts and unlock their learner’s comprehension and passion for mathematics.
The public-private partnership creates a space for teachers to receive training on various topics and soft skills, share their experiences and forge solid foundations from which they can learn and implement success stories. Teachers engage in discussions and presentations to identify solutions to better planning and teaching methods.
Speaking at the workshop, Bank Windhoek’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sponsorships, Bronwyn Moody, said Bank Windhoek aims to foster genuine and authentic relationships beyond banking. “Hence, part of our interest lies in investing in Namibia’s future. We hope that our investment in these cognitive stimulation activities goes a long way towards supporting the development of numeracy skills in the Namibian education system,” she said. Moody encouraged the teachers to use the knowledge gained to collectively improve education in their regions.
Doctor Chrisna von Geriecke Fourie from ALI said that the workshop entailed many relatable topics for mathematics teachers, including assessments, evaluation, marking and challenges that come with teaching. She said these topics were received as valuable by teachers. “The workshop helps them understand that being a mathematics teacher is not about following the curriculum but involves unlocking the potential of the Namibian child. During the workshop, teachers are equipped with practical mathematics training focusing on challenging areas. The other part of the workshop focuses on soft skills because to improve, we need to develop human and social capital,” she said.
ǁKharas region’s mathematics education officer, Thomas Swaartbooi, said he is grateful to have attended the workshop. “I am happy that the workshop combined mathematics and soft skills training, which adds to my professional and personal growth. The greatest highlight from the workshop is learning how to have a soft heart, tough mind, and upright character,” he said.
A mathematics teacher from the Oshikoto region, Maria Nehale, said the workshop was productive and enjoyable. “I have learned new ways of doing things and look forward to returning to the Oshikoto region to share what I have learned. This workshop has opened our minds and educated us on information we did not have before,” she said.
The second workshop followed the initial workshop in February 2024. After the first workshop, teachers from the Khomas, Omaheke, Hardap and Otjozondjupa regions greatly appreciated the topics discussed.
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