Sanjo Senior Secondary School teachers still without housing 14 years after construction began

By: Hertha Ekandjo

Construction of the teachers’ accommodation at Sanjo Senior Secondary School in Bukalo, Zambezi Region, has remained incomplete for 14 years since it began in 2012.

Despite the initial commencement of works, construction came to a complete halt and has not resumed to date, forcing teachers to commute daily from Katima Mulilo, located several kilometres away.

This situation was uncovered by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Youth, Civic Relations and Community Development during its oversight visit to the school on Thursday.

According to the Committee, the prolonged delay has had a significant impact on teachers’ welfare and productivity, as the lack of accommodation continues to pose logistical and financial challenges for staff members.

The Committee emphasised the urgent need for the ministry of education to intervene and ensure the completion of the housing units, which were initially intended to improve teachers’ living conditions and retention in rural schools.

The stalled project stands as one of several incomplete education infrastructure projects across the country, highlighting ongoing challenges in project management, budget allocation, and contractor performance within the public sector.