Africazine:
Evululuko Secondary School is taking proactive steps to address furniture shortages by repairing existing tables and chairs.
In Oshakati, learners and teachers have committed to fixing 310 tables and 170 chairs to ensure every student has a proper place to sit. This initiative, led by teacher Petrus Protasius, aims to foster skills in carpentry while addressing the pressing need for school furniture.
Community Effort to Repair School Furniture
The initiative at Evululuko Secondary School reflects a strong community spirit. With 535 learners enrolled, the school has seen an increase in student numbers this year, prompting the need for more functional furniture. Principal Fillemon Lungameni emphasized the importance of ensuring that no learner sits on the floor during classes.
Repairs are conducted collaboratively, with teachers and students working together. This not only addresses the furniture shortage but also provides valuable hands-on experience for the learners involved. The project encourages a sense of ownership among students, as they take pride in the furniture they help to restore.
Challenges and Solutions in Furniture Repair
Despite the enthusiasm, the project faces challenges, particularly regarding the availability of tools and materials. Principal Lungameni noted that they often borrow equipment from Mr. Protasius, who has been instrumental in supporting the initiative. However, these obstacles have not deterred their efforts.
Lungameni advocates for a shift in mindset among schools, urging them to repair rather than discard broken furniture. He believes that this approach can lead to significant savings for the government, allowing funds to be redirected to other essential areas.
Next Steps for Evululuko Secondary School
- Continue repairing chairs and tables with student involvement.
- Encourage other schools to adopt similar repair initiatives.
- Seek additional support for tools and materials.
This initiative showcases how schools can take charge of their resources and foster community engagement.
