Dear Visitors,

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I welcome you to the website of Tangeni Shilongo Namibia (TSN). As the Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture for the Republic of Namibia, I would like to highlight the invaluable work of organizations like TSN and their OPEN DOORS Education Centre (ODEC) in fostering the holistic development of our children and youth.

In Namibia, we recognize that education is the cornerstone of progress and development. The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of the Basic Education Act of 2020, advocating for free and compulsory basic education. Our goal is to ensure equitable access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for every child – regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

We acknowledge the challenges our nation faces, including income disparity and high unemployment rates. Tackling these issues requires collaborative efforts from the government, higher education institutions, the economy, and civil society. The Basic Education Act emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders to develop and implement an effective national policy framework for education. By working together through innovative and sustainable initiatives, we can enhance the well-being of all Namibians.

The OPEN DOORS Education Centre (ODEC) by TSN in Swakopmund exemplifies this collaborative spirit. Located near the DRC informal settlement, ODEC is proud to be the first free private school designed for vulnerable children from this community. With recognition as a state-approved institution, ODEC serves Grades 1-7 and embodies our national commitment to inclusive education, ensuring that no learner is discriminated against due to their social or economic status.

The establishment of ODEC represents a significant investment of over 20 million Namibian dollars, with ongoing operational costs exceeding 300,000 Namibian dollars monthly covered entirely through generous donations. This level of support showcases the unwavering commitment of TSN and its community.

ODEC provides a rich array of educational programs, including kindergarten, preschool, homework supervision for Grades 1-12, and daily warm meals. In addition to the standard Namibian curriculum, students benefit from subjects like Computer Science, Music, Urban Gardening, and foreign languages such as German and Afrikaans, equipping them with essential skills for the job market. Their Youth Development Program imparts crucial knowledge in entrepreneurship and technical skills, while the school library and amenities provide essential resources for tertiary education. I am particularly inspired by the ongoing development of the New DRC School Project, set to open in January 2026. This new facility will accommodate even more learners and extend ODEC’s offerings, further supporting the community’s education needs.

We firmly believe that the youth of Namibia are our future. By investing in their education, we empower them to shape that future and advocate for meaningful change. Your visit to this website, whether as a potential donor from afar or a concerned citizen within Namibia, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about TSN and ODEC. Your support – of any kind – sustains these essential initiatives and instills hope in countless children and families across our nation.

Thank you for your interest in fostering a brighter future for education in Namibia. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential and contribute significantly to our nation’s advancement and prosperity.

Warm regards,

Sanet L. Steenkamp

Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture 

Republic of Namibia