School contributions remain voluntary
The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) Sanet Steenkamp has reaffirmed that School Development Fund contributions are voluntary and that no learner should be denied access to education because their parents cannot afford to pay. Responding to questions in Parliament, Steenkamp said Namibia’s commitment to free basic education is anchored in Article 20 of the Constitution and supported by the Basic Education Act of 2020 and the ministry’s school funding framework.
She further explained that government funding covers essential educational services, including teachers’ salaries, school infrastructure, tuition, prescribed learning materials and operational support to schools. However, parents may still incur costs for school uniforms, transport and certain additional learning supplies, which can place a financial burden on low-income households. Steenkamp stressed that School Development Fund contributions must not be imposed as a condition for admission, attendance or participation in school activities. No learner should be disadvantaged because their parents are unable or unwilling to contribute.
She added that it would continue engaging school boards, principals and regional education officers to strengthen compliance with the law and address reports of compulsory or inappropriate payment demands. Parents should be able to raise concerns without fear that their children will be victimised or disadvantaged, the ministry said, adding that reported violations must be investigated and addressed in accordance with the law.
