The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) says it will cost N$268.7 million to elevate the grounds of the flood-affected Muzii Combined School in the Zambezi region over the next three years.
In a media statement issued on Thursday, the CPBN stated that it facilitated the signing of a contract for the embankment and elevation of Muzii Combined School’s grounds on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture.
The CPBN also stated that the tender for the project was awarded to Art Construction CC.
“This significant investment is aimed at improving the resilience, safety and functionality of educational infrastructure at Muzii Combined School, which is affected by recurring flooding. The intervention seeks to minimise disruptions to teaching and learning while addressing associated health and safety risks and existing infrastructure challenges.
As part of the works, elevated platforms and embankment protection will be constructed, together with a docking station and extensive supporting school infrastructure,” the statement reads.
The CPBN further stated that the project will include facilities such as male and female hostel blocks, a kitchen and dining hall, a matron’s house with sick bays, a services block, a principal’s house, three back-to-back staff houses, an administration block, ablution facilities, classroom blocks including laboratories, a guard house and associated external works and services.
During the signing of the contract on Wednesday, CPBN board chairperson Mary Shiimi said the project will ensure that pupils at the school will have access to quality education in a safe and conducive environment.
“This project is therefore not only about addressing the challenges posed by flooding, but also about ensuring that learners at Muzii Combined School are afforded an environment in which they can learn and develop without disruption,” she said.
The education ministry’s executive director, Erastus Haitengela, called for close coordination and communication during the duration of the project to resolve any challenges that may arise.
“Timely communication and early resolution of any challenges that may arise during
construction will avoid unnecessary delays and support completion within the agreed timeframe,” he said.
