Wernhil brightens future of Inge's Kindergarten

Junior Kapofi
For the seventh consecutive year, Wernhil Shopping Centre, owned by Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group subsidiary Broll Namibia, has joined hands with its partners in education to spread festive cheer.

This heartwarming tradition is part of the Wernhil Christmas Wish List Initiative, which brings joy and support to Inge's Kindergarten, a beacon of early childhood development in the Mix Settlement.

Inge's Kindergarten, established in 2008, caters to 39 children, aged three to six, with a few older children between seven and eight. This educational institution emerged to fulfill a need for early childhood development services in the settlement.

Over the years, Wernhil has become a pillar of support for this remarkable kindergarten, and this year's sponsorship reached a total value of N$6 000. The donation encompassed various elements that aimed to create a more vibrant and conducive learning environment for the children.

One of the significant contributions was the provision of six five-litre cans of paint, which not only added colour to the kindergarten's exterior, but also served the practical purpose of waterproofing and repairing damaged areas.

Additionally, the Wernhil team demonstrated their dedication by undertaking the task of installing and replacing windows in the kindergarten's two classrooms.

A notable feature of the donation was a bright and colorful school sign, crafted and installed by Image Signs. This eye-catching sign, valued at over N$3 000, not only enhances the aesthetics of the kindergarten but also provides a sense of identity and pride for the children and the local community.

The costs of this signage were shared equally between Wernhil and Image Signs, emphasising the collaborative spirit behind this initiative.

Huge difference

Julia Bashir, the head of centre at Inge's Kindergarten, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating: "We are truly thankful to O&L and Wernhil. They have been with us for three years now, and we truly appreciate the difference they've made in the community at large.

"What they assist with - the signage, paint and children's parties - all make a huge difference and give motivation to the children and their parents." She also shared her enthusiasm for the kindergarten's future, with hopes of expanding to include a garden and kitchen, which would further enrich the educational experience.

Johan van der Westhuizen, general manager of the operations department at Broll Namibia, underlined the significance of supporting initiatives like Inge's Kindergarten.

"What Inge's Kindergarten has done is an amazing initiative, and this is just the start. If we do not look after the youth, where will we be? It is important to support projects like these, and education will always remain an area of focus close to our hearts at Wernhil. We must look after the foundation of education, and that starts here."