New Elementary Namibia

New Elementary Namibia (New Elementary) is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that works to improve the quality of early childhood education in vulnerable communities. Our aim is to create safe and supportive learning spaces that help children think, learn and use their imagination. The NGO was founded in 2016 by Helena Kandjumbwa. While volunteering as a teacher in children’s centers in Windhoek’s informal settlements, she witnessed how poverty can affect children’s learning and development. From this experience, she realized that many children’s educational and developmental needs are not being met and require urgent attention. New Elementary was therefore established to rebuild and improve early childhood centres that do not meet children’s standards — especially those made from corrugated iron or similar materials — and turn them into proud buildings that provide a safe and healthy learning environment for young children.