ERC suspends classes in Kuisebmond and Narraville amid water crisis

Renthia Kaimbi

The Erongo Regional Council (ERC) has announced the temporary suspension of teaching and learning at all schools in Kuisebmond and Narraville for Tuesday, 13 October, and Wednesday, 14 October 2026.

The decision, outlined in a circular issued by the directorate of education, innovation, youth, sports, arts and culture, follows a public notice from the Walvis Bay municipality regarding planned water supply interruptions.

According to the directive, the suspension applies to all learners from pre-primary to grade 10, with normal teaching and learning for affected schools scheduled to resume on Thursday, 15 October 2026, unless otherwise directed.

Despite the widespread suspension, the ERC confirmed that national examinations will not be disrupted.

Learners writing the Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Ordinary (NSSCO) and Advanced Subsidiary (AS) examinations are required to report to school according to their examination timetables and arrive on time.

The circular emphasized that examination personnel, including heads of examination centres, heads of centres, and invigilators, must report for duty on time to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted administration of the exams.

It further stated that learners will be released after completing their examinations and necessary administrative procedures for the day.

The council also issued specific operational directives to ensure minimal disruption and the safety of learners and staff.

Cleaning staff at affected schools are required to report for duty on to ensure that school toilets are cleaned and ready for use when normal schooling resumes on Thursday.

Meanwhile, schools situated outside the affected areas in Walvis Bay will continue with normal teaching and learning, though they have been urged to use water sparingly due to anticipated low water pressure.

Principals of affected schools have been instructed to urgently communicate these arrangements to all parents, learners, and staff to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

The circular urged principals to ensure strict adherence to these arrangements, particularly regarding the continuation of the NSSC/AS examinations, while safeguarding the well-being of learners and staff during the water supply interruption.

Photo: Contributed

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