Shot in the arm for chair, desk initiative
Old Mutual Namibia announced the 2025 edition of its flagship Chair and Desk Initiative, pledging N$1 million through the Old Mutual Foundation to improve learning environments across four targeted regions.This year’s initiative focuses on schools in Kavango East and West, Khomas, and Hardap, where two schools per region will be selected — one to receive brand-new classroom furniture and another to benefit from the repair of existing desks and chairs.
“This initiative is more than furniture,” said Mignon du Preez, Old Mutual Namibia’s Group Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability Executive. “It’s about creating opportunity, restoring dignity, and giving learners a space where they feel valued and motivated to learn.”
Since its inception in 2023, the Chair and Desk Initiative has already reached 12 schools, with a total of 16 more expected to benefit by 2026. The foundation’s progressive investment — N$600 000 in 2023, N$800 000 in 2024, and now N$1 million — reflects a growing commitment to educational upliftment.
In past editions, the initiative has supported regions including Zambezi, Kunene, Omaheke, //Kharas, Erongo, and Oshana. Notable beneficiaries include Mavuluma Combined School in Zambezi, which received 100 new chairs and desks, and Kaitsi! Gubeb Combined School in //Kharas, where 80 units were restored.
Beyond addressing infrastructure needs, the initiative also promotes skills development through partnerships with Okakarara and Eenhana Vocational Training Centres, ensuring that furniture is locally crafted and repaired — empowering Namibian youth with hands-on training and economic opportunities.
Online applications opened on 15 May and will close on 30 May 2025. Importantly, schools must submit applications via the designated online portal, as email and hand-delivered submissions will not be accepted. The selected schools will be announced on 6 June 2025 via Old Mutual’s social media platforms.