• YOUTH

Acacia High School Annual Prize-Giving & Awards

• 1 Week Ago

Welcome Remarks from the Acting Principal, Mr. Shimuningeni

Acting principal for Acacia secondary school, Mr. Shimuningeni gave a welcoming speech at the start of the award ceremony.

“We gather not only to celebrate achievements but also to reaffirm our commitment to excellence through dedication and growth,” he said.

Shimuningeni acknowledged the deputy Minister Balloti, as well as honored guests for making time to attend the event.

He gave a word of thanks to the deputy Minister for providing leadership in education and youth empowerment.

“This inspires us to nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers,” Shimuningeni said

He gave a word of thanks to all the learners,for their hard work, perseverance, and character for focusing on bringing success to the school and themselves.

“ Awards are not just about recognition, they are a challenge to strive for even greater heights,” he said

According to Shimuningeni, this moment will ignite the learners' passion to keep growing, learning, and adding value in all they do.

“To our teachers and parents, your dedication shapes these young minds, and your support is the foundation of their success. We thank you for your unwavering commitment,” he added

Shimuningen stated that success is not an endpoint but a journey for everyone.

He said how this ceremony inspires all of us to pursue excellence with integrity, resilience, and purpose.

Shimuningeni ends this special occasion with a quote of encouragement for everyone,” Let’s celebrate our stars!" he ended with

Speech by the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts & Culture, Hon. Dino Balloti

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Balloti expressed his honor in attending the ceremony, marking his first visit to a school since his appointment.

He commended the teachers for their dedication,their efforts, sacrifices, and commitment to their work.

“Dear teachers, you do not go unnoticed, and on behalf of the ministry that I represent here this morning, I want to assure you that we stand firmly behind you,” he said

According to Balloti, he recognizes the challenges that come with implementing the revised curriculum, and he is dedicated to ensuring that they receive the necessary training, capacitation, and resources.

He also made a strong commitment to the school's future for next year marking the 20th anniversary,for the hall that is not big enough.

“We have 12 months to raise funds and build a bigger school hall for Acacia High School, and we acknowledge the learners sitting outside, attentively listening,” he said

According to Balloti, they will work hard to support the school with all that they need, alongside with the minister.

“It is to ensure that we raise the necessary capital and expand this hall before your porcelain anniversary next year,” Balloti stated

Balloti gave a word of encouragement to the learners that the future of Namibia rests in their hands.

“ You are our future leaders, and the decisions you make today will shape the trajectory of our country. Dream big. Let your dreams be so ambitious that they scare you. Do not limit yourselves. Work hard, stay dedicated, and strive to achieve your goals," he said

Voices of the Learners

Nyasha Tom – Head Girl & Best Performing Senior Learner

Head Girl Nyasha Tom shared her excitement about the event and the Deputy Minister’s presence giving a pleasant welcome of thanks.

Tom thanked the Deputy Minister’s words of encouragement that were truly uplifting, and how they are very grateful.

“To my fellow learners and others out there, even if you are not academically gifted, everyone has a talent,” she said

Tom ended her speech with encouragement for everyone to have their own space in this world.

“It is not the end, everyone is good at something. Follow your dreams" Tom said.

Nyaguse Alvin – Head Boy

Head Boy Nyaguse Alvin also shared his reflections on the Deputy Minister’s speech:

"When the Deputy Minister spoke, I felt truly inspired. He mentioned that he never really received recognition or awards for his scientific talents, yet today, at 39, he is the Deputy Minister. That proves that success is not about how others see you—it’s about how hard you work and how much you push yourself.

Hard work beats talent in anything. I congratulate everyone who won awards today, and to those who didn’t, remember: there is always a next time. Keep striving for excellence."

Katrina Kanyanga – Best Overall Performing Learner

With an outstanding academic record—93% in Agriculture, 84% in Mathematics, and 80% in English,Katrina Kanyanga was named the best overall performing learner.

"I am in first position, and I feel really happy about it. I wasn’t expecting it, but I made it! I am excited and grateful for this recognition,” she said

Kanyanga's advice to her fellow learners is that it’s never too late to change.

“You can still study, work hard, and become whatever you aspire to be. Believe in yourself and stay determined," Kanyanga stated

The Acacia High School Annual Prize-Giving and Awards Ceremony 2025 was a resounding success, celebrating the hard work and achievements of learners while reinforcing the school’s commitment to academic excellence. With promises of infrastructural improvements and words of encouragement from leadership, the future of Acacia High School shines brighter than ever. The ceremony served as a reminder that with dedication, resilience, and passion, every learner has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the world.