An admirable Star Teacher

1. A brief introduction and history of yourself

I am Laban Nghidipo Shidute. I am a qualified teacher and have worked in the field of education for the last 32 years. I was born in a village called Otindi, in the Omusati Region. I started my primary school journey at Mandume Primary School, high school at Augustineum SS, and my tertiary education at the Academy for Tertiary Education (UNAM). My highest academic qualification would be grade 12, with my highest professional qualification being a Bachelor of Education.

2. Occupation and company of employment.

As the principal, I coordinate and provide opportunities for the teachers and learners to improve their oral, reading, writing and listening skills. Most importantly, I develop links with parents, other schools, and the community, including businesses and industries impacting students and teachers, in order to enhance teaching and learners' personal development. I pride myself on establishing and developing positive working relationships between all staff members and effectively implementing management strategies that greatly contribute to the improvement of staff morale.

3. How long have you worked for the school?

I have worked for 32 years from the entry level to the top of the school hierarchy. I am driven by passion for the teaching profession. Teachers get fulfilment from our learners when they enter different professions and we get to meet them over time in their professions as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and journalists, seeing them serve the community. Your teachers will be very proud of you when you finish.

4. Employment journey, where you started and where you are now.

1990 -1990 Dias Secondary School (TEACHER)
1991- 1991 Namutuni Primary School (TEACHER)
1992- 1996 Theo Katjimune Primary School (TEACHER)
1997-to date Tobias Hainyeko Primary School Teacher, (Head of Department, Deputy Principal, Principal)

5. What are some life lessons your occupation has taught you?
You need to be very integral.
Hardworking.
Learn to pay attention to small details.
Learn to correct your work before submission.
Learn to listen to your subordinates, even a cleaner can give you good advice.
Ask for strength from above everyday.

6. What are some achievements and obstacles you’ve come across during your time?
As I mentioned before, producing students who subsequently become lawyers, engineers, teachers, nurses etc.
When learners drop out of school and end up on the streets due to poor socio-economic backgrounds, teenage pregnancy etc.

7. What do you love about your job and why?
As a school manager, I love working with school communities, encouraging them to support learners to achieve their goals so they can live according to the norms and values of society and become future role models.

8. How long do you plan on staying at the school or in the ministry and what are your plans after you leave?
At my age, I still feel very strong but with high unemployment in the country, I need to give the opportunity to the youth to prove their mettle. Once I retire and leave the system I want to travel to Jerusalem, Judea, to see the birthplace of Jesus.

9. Words of advice to the youth and young individuals.
To the youth of today, success doesn’t come overnight, nor does the accumulation of wealth happen overnight. Hard work coupled with an element of being smart and patience are important. Rome wasn’t built in one day, be focused on what you want to achieve; never give up; failing is a good teacher of gaining experience. Believe in yourself, nothing is impossible.