Walvis Bay education circuit inspector retires
Leandrea LouwAfter 40 years in the education fraternity, Monica Gawises (60), the education inspector for the Walvis Bay circuit, has retired.
Her last official working day was 30 June after starting her career as a teacher at Elifas #Goseb School, Usakos, where she taught English for grades five, six and seven. In 1996, she started teaching at Erongosig Primary School in Usakos. By 2002, she had proven herself to such an extent that she was appointed the principal of Erongosig, which she led for the next 10 years.
In 2012, she joined the Walvis Bay education circuit office.
Gawises said she served the Namibian nation through the education sector to the best of her abilities.
“I am excited, delighted and I feel victorious. I achieved most of my goals as circuit inspector, only through God’s grace. I have done my part successfully and I have played my role to the best of my abilities. I was blessed with wonderful staff members, especially the school principals, who are proactive, hardworking and dedicated individuals. In a nutshell, I was associated with successful academics and had a sound relationship with the various school principals.”
She said she’ll still be in Walvis Bay for the remainder of the year, but will be joining her husband at their farm later on.
“In the next few years, I will be a farmer’s wife.”
The retired inspector said Walvis Bay needs at least three fully-fledged primary schools and two high schools to accommodate the growing influx of learners to the harbour town.
“Shortage of classrooms has always been a challenge in Walvis Bay. Another big challenge for me was that some parents do not enroll their children at schools on time. Parents usually flocked to the circuit office begging for space for their children.”
She explained that the region will start with enrolment this month.
“On 27 July, enrolment will open for grade ones, 28 July for pre-primary and 29 July for the grade eights. I am urging the parents to please enroll their children on time.”
Aside from the numerous challenges faced, Gawises has a number of highlights during her tenure as circuit inspector.
“I have achieved all my goals and dreams. Three schools opened during my tenure as inspector, High Hope Primary School, Seaside Primary School and Tutaleni High School. I also took my own initiative and approached Namport, who assisted us with four classrooms at Seaside Primary School to accommodate more children during normal school hours.”
Gawises said Joseph Martin, who has been part of the circuit office for the past seven years, will be acting circuit inspector for Walvis Bay.
“The vacancy has been advertised and will soon be filled.”
Her outgoing message is: “In this unprecedented time of Covid-19, it’s important that we follow the health protocols in place. Keep safe. I’d like to urge the parents to take care of their children. Not all children are gifted academically, some children are good with their hands. Parents, please support your children.”
She expressed her gratitude towards God, Who carried her throughout her career.
“I grateful towards my late boss, John Awaseb, my current boss Enfriede Stephanus and the regional management team, my principals, my staff members at the office, the parents and the entire community of Walvis Bay - I am extremely grateful.”
PHOTO CAPTION:
Monica Gawises is retiring after 40 years in the education fraternity. Photo Leandrea Louw
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