We want you to be great Namibians – Ballotti

Deputy minister of education, innovation, youth, sport, arts and culture Dino Ballotti has urged pupils to take their schooling seriously, drawing on his own academic struggles during a motivational talk in Windhoek.

He was speaking to Grade 11 and 12 pupils at Waldorf School Windhoek yesterday, where he shared how neglecting his studies nearly cost him his Grade 12 results.

“I was never a strong academic pupil. I almost failed Grade 12 and I don’t say it with pride but I’m open to say it. I didn’t take my education seriously enough. I enjoyed football a bit too much,” he said.

Ballotti said although he passed with enough marks to get him into university, self doubt still followed him.

Instead of discouraging him, his father offered simple but powerful advice, telling him not to worry and to come work with him so they could struggle together.

Ballotti described the advice as “the best” but decided to choose “a soft life rather than struggle”.

“Each and everyone of you has a purpose and you’re valued. I wish I had an opportunity to speak to the late St George’s Diocesan Grade 12 pupil who took her life,” he said.

He encouraged pupils to enjoy their youth, reminding them that they will only be young once. He stressed that education should be taken seriously.

The deputy minister said while some people may already know their purpose, others are still discovering it.

“Where we come from does not dictate where we are going. There are too many average Namibians. We want you to be great Namibians. We do not need average people,” he said.

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