The very well attended opening ceremony, took place on a sunny day in Swakopmund. Highlights included a heartfelt beneficiary testimonial shared by Hilma Nuule, an alumna of the Teach for ESD programme and the founder of the Flamingo SS Enviro Club who reflected on the impact NaDEET had on her environmental educational journey and personal growth. This was followed by a speech from Mr Chris Eixab, Swakopmund Circuit Inspector, who recognised the NaDEET’s role in advancing environmental learning for Namibian youth. “The Centre continues to serve as a valuable partner in providing hands-on, practical learning experiences and it remains essential that future generations acquire foundational environmental knowledge and are inspired to pursue sustainable practices” he noted.

A keynote address was delivered by Ms Eunice Smith, UNESCO Head of Office and Representative to Namibia, who said, “UNESCO reiterates its commitment to working collectively with government, educators, civil society (including NaDEET) and the community (especially the youth) to foster and strengthen coordination, implementation, and monitoring of ESD initiatives in Namibia”.

The ceremony culminated in the official ribbon-cutting led by Ms Smith and Ms Lee Tindall from the ProNamib Trust, the property sponsor, followed by the unveiling of the new plaque and a group photo with the special guests of the day.

A recent group of primary schoolchildren are enjoying their snack break on our upcycled seating area at the Urban Sustainability Centre on a sunny day. 

Over the past two months, we have travelled throughout the entire country to visit almost all our participating teachers and schools. The site visits are an important opportunity for teachers to showcase their work to us demonstrating the many creative ways they have applied environmental sustainability and to get personalised guidance.

We were heartily welcomed by all.

“NaDEET is a very cool, fun, and nice place where you get to learn about our environment and how to recycle,” said one of the Flamingo Primary School schoolchildren, our first primary school to take part in the 3-day programme at the Urban Centre since our relocation.

The children enjoyed all the new and revamped activities. They shared that when they return to school, they will be “unique and better learners” who care for the environment.

For more of an insider view of the Urban Centre, check out our latest newsletter.

One of our participating university students enjoying NamibRand's vast open spaces during the Solitaire Activity. 

We are thrilled to be hosting groups again! With the recent completion of our classroom facility, we held our first programme for the year, Teach for ESD at the Urban Sustainability Centre in Swakopmund. Over 130 of our participating teachers took part in this third in-person practical training. Learn more about the Teach for ESD programme here.

With major renovations now complete, the space is fully functional with a modern touch, and we look forward to hosting many more impactful programmes at our unique environmental education centre at the Namibian coast.