In Namibia’s informal settlements ,land teneture is uncertain and permanent buildings are often not allowed. Early centres are typically built with currogated iron that’s cheap, quick to assemble and easy to move. These shacks however have no insulation. Classrooms overheat in summer, trap cold in winter and water seeps through the makeshift structure during the rainy seasons. Lessons are interrupted, children are sent home and learning falls behind.

We reconstruct these centres using precast wall panels, creating modular classrooms that ho up fast and can be relocated when required by local authorities. Unlike the currogated iron, the new precast structures are weather resistant, better ventilated and provide real space for play and movement, where teaching continues despite extreme weather.

Before taking on a project, we consult the local authorities (Municipality and Constituency Councillor) to acquire the necessary authorization to install temporary structures on the land. Given the uncertainty  surrounding land development timelines, which can span years or even decades, the urgency to provide adequate and conducive learning environments for children right now is critical.

New Elementary was founded in 2016 by Helena Kandjumbwa, whose earlier experience as a volunteer teacher at a children’s center ad revealed to her the many unmet and underserved educational needs of children in informal settlements.