Balloti urges action on teachers’ mental health as youth crisis deepens

Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Dino Balloti, has emphasised that mental health is a cross-cutting issue requiring action from all sectors of government.Speaking at the launch of the Teachers’ Mental Health Awareness Campaign in Keetmanshoop on 5 October, Balloti said the well-being of educators must be prioritised, as teachers play a vital role in shaping the nation’s future.The campaign aims to raise awareness of the mental well-being of teachers, who play a key role in nurturing young minds. “When teachers are not okay, learners are not okay,” Balloti said, calling for collective action from ministries, schools and communities to support mental wellness in education.The campaign, themed “Community,” also seeks to create a supportive and stigma-free environment for teachers, highlighting the importance of connection, care and collective healing within the school community.Education minister Sanet Steenkamp also expressed appreciation and urgent concern for the teachers of Namibia.“Many of our teachers feel isolated, carrying heavy loads without support, and too often our infrastructure is inadequate and resources are scarce,” she said. “No teacher should walk alone, and collaboration must be at the heart of our profession. To every teacher across Namibia and across the world, we salute you.”The Namibia National Teachers Union (NANTU) raised concerns over increasing burnout among teachers caused by stressful working conditions.Deputy president Ndjavera Kambangero linked burnout to anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts, and thus urged that the government treat mental health as a national priority.Campaign founder Camelida Kaizer, who has personally overcome depression and anxiety, said the initiative marks the beginning of a transformative journey for all Namibians.The event concluded with a candlelight ceremony honouring teachers who lost their lives while battling mental health challenges.

Balloti urges action on teachers’ mental health as youth crisis deepens

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Republikein 2025-12-01

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