The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture has officially responded to allegations circulating on social media regarding possible corruption and favoritism in the recent national examination results. Concerns were raised about the children of high-ranking officials ranking among the top performers in the 2024 national exams.
In a media statement, the Ministry clarified its commitment to providing quality education and maintaining the integrity of the national examination system. The Ministry emphasized that examination candidates are evaluated solely on merit, highlighting that only three of the top 20 candidates are children of Ministry staff.
One of the highlighted cases involves Mutisya Mutuka, son of Dr. Elizabeth Ndjendja, Deputy Director at the Directorate of National Examinations and Assessment (DNEA). Mutuka has consistently excelled academically, ranking in the top performers since primary school and recently scoring 91% in Computer Science, placing first nationally for the AS Level.
Additionally, twins Tavapewa and Twahela Nepolo, daughters of Sara Negumbo, Director of National Libraries and Archive Services, also achieved top results. The twins previously demonstrated exceptional academic performance at Delta Secondary School and Windhoek Gymnasium Private School, ranking 34th and 78th nationally in Grade 3.
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| Ministry of Education Responds to Corruption Allegations |
Jolisa Garises from Rukonga Vision School also ranked first in the NSSCO-Ordinary Level exams. The Ministry confirmed that Garises has no family ties to any DNEA staff member, including Ms. Clemmentine Tsumis-Garises, Director of the DNEA.
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| Ministry of Education Responds to Corruption Allegations |
The Ministry assured the public that the national examinations are conducted under strict rules, with printed exam papers securely packaged and distributed directly to regions. Additionally, all DNEA staff members must declare any conflicts of interest, and annual audits are conducted to maintain transparency.
Acknowledging public concern, the Ministry reiterated its openness to any investigation deemed necessary and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward corruption within its operations.
The Ministry expressed sympathy for the learners affected by these allegations and reassured the public that the examination processes remain credible and transparent.