Star Teacher

Star Teacher Alleta Kavilikita Shikukumwa

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

The plan was never to become a teacher, I have always wanted to become a nurse, but life happened. After grade 12, I improved my English and started doing a little bit of research towards the language and I eventually fell in love and I thought to myself, why can I not go educate the Namibian child? My aunt also played a role in me becoming a teacher.

What were your aspirations at a younger age?

Well, growing up I have always wanted to become a nurse or a doctor, but since I did not perform well in grade 12, I could not qualify for any medical course. That is when I decided to go into the field of education.

What motivates you to get up every morning to go to work?

I have a heart for the Nambian child. I believe as a teacher it is my responsibility to make sure that I fulfil my duties to go to work every day and the fact that I am greatly contributing to an educated Namibia. A lot of these children come from less fortunate families and me fighting for them to better their future motivates me every day.

What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learnt from one of your learners?

They like teachers who are close to them, they have taught me the importance of socialising and to not always to make lessons about teaching every day. Furthermore, learners will eventually fall in love with the subject if you are close to them. I would say the biggest thing is love.

How long have you been a teacher?

I have been teaching since 2014 at the same school, which is Shaanika Nashilongo Secondary School. In total, it is eight years.

What is your favourite book, song and favourite place to visit in Namibia?

Book: Conversations with Myself by Nelson Mandela.

Song: Each Tear by Mary J Blige.

Favourite place: I visited a lot of places during university, so places like the Fish River Canyon I would like to go back to on my own time and expense.

What are your talents? What are you passionate about?

I like thinking out loud and it helps me a lot, so I would say that is my talent. I am - in most cases - always a step ahead, I would think of something today that I have to do tomorrow.

I am passionate about photography and interior décor. I want to take a step ahead and do something about it, I would not mind doing it in my free time.

Tell us about your journey?

I grew up in the north with my grandmother and my grandfather and started pre-primary at Oshigambo Primary School. In 2004, I moved to Iipumbu Secondary School where I finished grade 12. I had to upgrade ny points as I could not enrol in university. In 2010, I managed to get the required points and I enrolled at the University of Namibia. I graduated in 2014 and I’ve been a teacher ever since.