18 Mar 2025

Efforts to establish a new primary school in Tobera have spanned the last three National Development Plans (NDP) from NDP 10 to the current one.

Responding to a parliamentary question recently, Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa confirmed his awareness of the community’s pressing need for improved educational facilities.

Despite recognising this need, Mr Motshegwa expressed disappointment that funding for the project was not secured due to competing priorities.

“The process to upgrade Shaikarawe Primary School to a fully-fledged school has already commenced,” he stated.

The minister said community consultations regarding the proposed upgrade took place on March 7, 2025. During these meetings, residents were informed about the plan to enhance Shaikarawe Satellite Primary School into a fully operational school.

Looking forward, Mr Motshegwa indicated plans by the ministry, in conjunction with the Okavango District Council, to submit a proposal for the project under NDP 12.

Okavango East MP, Mr Gabatsholwe Disho had asked the minister about specific plans for building a new primary school in Tobera, a project that has been included in two to three development plans. He had also asked when Shaikarawe Primary School would be upgraded to a fully-fledged primary school. ENDS