Killed teacher described as brave, hard-working

Various speakers at the memorial service of Nathanael Nghihalwa (39) described him as helpful, brave and hard-working on Friday.

Nghihalwa, who was a teacher at Oshali West Combined School in the Ohangwena region, was shot dead by an unknown person or persons on the night of 11 November at Oshikuyu, a village in the Ohangwena region.

His killer(s) have not yet been arrested.

A memorial service for Nghihalwa took place at his home on Friday and he was laid to rest last weekend.

Speaking at the memorial service, Oshali West Combined School head of department Immanuel Sheehama said Nghihalwa was hardworking.

“He was teaching physical science and life science for grades eight to 10. He was a brilliant teacher, hardworking and was punctual. He loved his job,” Sheehama said.

Sheehama said Nghihalwa was helpful to all school pupils.

“He would buy school uniforms, stationery and food for needy pupils.”

He said apart from being a teacher, Nghihalwa was a good soccer player and loved sport in general.

“Nathanael was very peaceful, quiet and was a friend to all. We are sceptical if we will get someone of his calibre,” he said, adding that during staff meetings, Nghihalwa would give good advice.

He said Nghihalwa came to Oshali West Combined School in 2009 as a temporary teacher and continued as a volunteer teacher before being appointed permanently.

Endola circuit education inspector Simon Vaeta, in a statement read on his behalf by Oshali West principal Simulya Kingsley, described Nghihalwa as a dedicated teacher who contributed immensely to the development of Namibian children.

“His departure has left a gap that we will struggle to fill,” Vaeta said.

One of Nghihalwa’s pupils, Ndapandula Titus, said he treated them like his biological children and would always encourage them to study.

She said sometimes Nghihalwa would subject them to corporal punishment if they failed his subjects.

“He did this because he wanted us to work hard. He was a good adviser, he bought uniforms for needy pupils and he cared for us. He loved us,” she said.

Tangeni Nghidulika, who made a statement on behalf of artists, said Nghihalwa’s death was a big loss to the arts community.

He said Nghihalwa would invite artists from Omungwelume to perform music at his shebeen.

“We get to know Thabo [Nghihalwa] as a go-getter and he was committed to what he wanted to achieve. He helped us financially and he wanted to see us grow. His death devastated us. It shattered our friendships and dreams. Those who killed him should be brought to book,” he said.

Nghihalwa is survived by his wife Emilia, three minor children and two siblings.