Teachers applaud skills enhancement training
In collaboration with the Capricorn Foundation, Bank Windhoek recently hosted a two-day grade 4 mathematics teachers initiative in Windhoek.Supported by the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, the workshop aimed to invest in the education of Namibian youth.
The event started with a welcoming remark by Bank Windhoek’s Bronwyn Moody who focused on how critical mathematics is for learners who can one day become productive members of building the Namibian economy and society. She touched on an example of how grade 3’s who were taught in their mother tongue find it challenging when taught in English in the next grade.
Thirty-one selected teachers from across the country attended the workshop, which aimed at equipping the teachers to be hands-on and to be learner-centred. The teachers were encouraged to be innovative and improvise by using items in their surroundings to teach instead of relying on funds. The workshop was engaging and exposed teachers to various games they could play to keep students attentive during classes. Teachers were encouraged to use flashcards and posters in their respective classes.
Behaviour
Some teachers commented that they did not understand kids’ behaviours at times. This concern was addressed during a session with Dr Eunice Gonzo, a psychologist, who touched on mental health, the power of the mind, abuse at home and identifying different learning styles. Her main messages focused on change, a permanent shift of alterations, beliefs, attitudes, habits or processes.
She advised attendees to choose their thought patterns and become aware of their thoughts. “Remember, failure is not a disaster, even if we sometimes fail. It is a stepping stone to success. In every matter, we fail. It is an opportunity to do better or to do something different. Results come from you, so protect your mind with all you have,” she said.
The teachers said they learnt more about assessments, innovative means of giving class and treating each child individually. They said they would share this information with their colleagues and thanked Bank Windhoek and the Capricorn Group for the opportunity.
The deputy director of the Ministry of Education, Edda Bohn, said that mathematics is the queen of science. “We cannot imagine our life without mathematics. It makes human life more organised. The knowledge of numbers and their basic operation is essential to survive in today’s world,” she said.