Understanding the importance of extracurricular activities

Sports and clubs are often sidelined in discussions about education. Yet they play a crucial role in shaping a learner’s life beyond academics. Insights shared by Charles Lohmann, a golf player, Heskiel Ndahangwapo, Namibia’s reigning chess champion and Hillary Dux Imbuwa, president of the Namibia Volleyball Federation (NVF), highlight how sports bring more than just fun to an athlete’s life.



Lohmann said his experience with golf showed him how being part of a sports club teaches respect, maturity and teamwork. His dedication to consistent practice and discipline in golf is also reflected in his approach to studying, showing the overlap between sports and academics. “Participation at a high level in extracurricular sports often opens doors for students in the form of international college or university scholarships. Testimony to this are the handful of young Namibian golfers who are currently attending or have attended university in America on golf scholarships,” he said.

Ndahangwapo underscored the mental aspects of the game, quoting Bobby Fischer, a record-setting chess master, about its essence being a 'quest for truth'.

He said: “Chess isn’t just about moving pieces; it’s about decision-making, pattern recognition and self-discipline. The social aspect of chess clubs and tournaments fosters relationships, communication skills and teamwork.”

These skills transcend the chessboard and are applicable in academics and daily life.

NVF and NSSU development initiatives

Imbuwa highlighted the holistic benefits of extracurricular activties, saying they foster physical health and discipline. These activities also help manage stress, boost confidence and foster goal-setting abilities. “Our mandate as a volleyball federation is to promote and develop the game of volleyball (both indoors and on the beach) across the country. We collaborate with the Namibia School Sport Union (NSSU) to grow the capacity for schoolteachers as foot soldiers for volleyball development at school levels.”

He said despite no funding support, they have positively impacted children from different backgrounds, regardless of their race, gender or social status, through their volleyball development programmes.

“Our initiatives have gone as far as Maltahöhe, Ruacana, Outapi, Okahao, Otjinene, Leonardville and other parts of the Zambezi, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Kavango East regions. Our programmes are designed to create a positive and participatory environment for young people to become socially responsible citizens. All while teaching every child that volleyball is not just a game but a way of life.”