The boarding experience at Oshakati SSS
Oshakati SSS stands as a beacon of education in the Oshana region, providing important opportunities for learners across northern Namibia.Beyond its academic reputation, the school’s boarding facilities play a crucial role in shaping the lives of its residents.
Daily life within the boarding facilities is structured, yet supportive. A typical day begins with a early wake up call, followed by meals at the school’s dining hall at 06:00 on school days and 08:00 on weekends. The food is served by the dining hall staff and learners are either served jungle oats or soft porridge with bread and tea in the morning. If it’s a school day, learners go to classes while on the weekend they go to morning study.
There’s a structured schedule, including designated study periods over weekends, which gives learners time to reinforce classroom learning, complete assignments and prepare for exams. It also provides a structured environment for focused learning, minimising distractions.
After morning study, the learners go for lunch at 13:00 on Saturday, and 12:00 on Sunday. They are either served chicken with macaroni and apples or potatoes with cabbage or beetroot with fried chicken.
Regarding discipline, if learners do not make their beds, clean their rooms or are late for class, they are given a portion to clean on the school grounds. This instils discipline and valuable time management skills.
Learners who fight, steal, insult each other or commit a major offence are sent to the disciplinary committee where they can either be suspended for some time or expelled.
Rules and regulations, while seemingly strict, serve to create a safe and organised environment promoting a scene of shared responsibility.
Recognising the challenges of living away from home, the food at the DH can sometimes not be enough for every learner and the showering experience can sometimes be tough due to there being too many people in the shower at once, which can result to a learner being late for class. Sharing living space with other students can limit privacy and personal space, which can be particularly challenging for learners who are used to having their own rooms.
Students have limited space for personal belongings which can make it hard for them to bring items that give them comfort.
House parents and other staff members act as mentors and guides, offering guidance and emotional support.
The school also addresses homesickness and emotional challenges through counselling services and peer support groups.
Living in the boarding facilities promotes personal growth and independence. Students learn to manage their time, solve problems and take responsibility for their actions. Finally, the experience cultivates essential life skills that extend beyond the classroom.