Horizon Primary School – Tangeni Shilongo Namibia e.V.

Horizon Primary School is located in the DRC, one of the largest informal settlements in Namibia. In an environment shaped by poverty, insecurity and limited access to education, the school deliberately creates a strong counterbalance. It offers children a safe place, reliable structures and real prospects for the future.

Education remains one of the greatest challenges in Namibia. According to UNESCO, many children from informal settlements leave school early or do not receive a school place at all. This is exactly where Horizon Primary School steps in. It creates sustainable educational structures where they are needed most.

The construction of the school was made possible through the generous support of the Werner Erkes Foundation.

The Story of the Project

Horizon Primary School grew out of the DRC School Project and Community Centre. For more than 20 years, lessons took place in simple learning containers. The conditions were challenging, yet one thing was always clear. The children arrived every morning with curiosity, motivation and a strong determination to learn.

What began as a temporary solution gradually developed into a clear vision. An officially recognized primary school in the heart of the DRC. A place that lasts. A place that supports and uplifts.

BeforeAfter

Tour through our old School Project

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From Containers to Classrooms

With the completion of the new school building, reality has fundamentally changed for the children. Narrow containers have been replaced by bright, safe learning spaces. What was once a temporary solution has become a permanent place of education.

Today, Horizon Primary School offers

10 bright classrooms
a well equipped library
a kitchen providing daily meals for the children
a two storey hall for assemblies, activities and shared learning
a two storey library

This building represents more than infrastructure. It stands for stability, dignity and future opportunities.

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A Historic Moment

In January, after just one year of construction, Horizon Primary School was officially inaugurated. It is the first school in the DRC. A milestone for the children, their families and the entire neighborhood.

What was built over many years under temporary conditions has now found a permanent home. A place where learning is no longer shaped by uncertainty, but by stability and trust.

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Our School Today

Currently, 140 children attend Horizon Primary School. With a total capacity of 180 learners, space has been intentionally created for further growth. The children are supported by 20 dedicated staff members, including teachers, educational professionals and support staff who work together to shape daily school life.

Teaching follows the Namibian national curriculum, ensuring official state recognition and a smooth transition to secondary schools. The language of instruction is English. In addition, the children receive German and Afrikaans as second languages, significantly improving their opportunities within the Namibian education system.

A special focus is placed on physical activity and individual support. This includes swimming, participation in the Bundesjugendspiele and targeted development of athletically talented children. Regular exercise not only strengthens health, but also enhances concentration, learning ability and self confidence.

The structured school day begins at 7:30 am and ends at 1:30 pm. Afterwards, all children receive a balanced warm meal. This is followed by one hour of targeted tutoring and supervised homework time. At 3:30 pm, the children return home with the assurance that all schoolwork has been completed, leaving time for family, play and rest. Especially for children growing up in challenging life situations, this clear daily structure provides safety and stability.