FOUNDATION
FOUNDATION
A SINGLE STEP FORWARD
Building a Vision for Otjikondo
For more than 35 years, Otjikondo School Village has been guided by a simple vision: that children from rural Namibia should have access to quality education, care and the opportunity to shape their own future. As Namibia has grown and changed, Otjikondo has evolved alongside it.
What began as a small initiative has become a thriving school village where 240 children live, learn, and develop the confidence to pursue their goals. Today, Otjikondo is more than a school. It is a community where education is supported by stability, guidance, and care – giving children the foundations they need to thrive.
Looking ahead, the vision continues to evolve. Namibia today offers opportunities that were unimaginable to many families a generation ago. Technology, connectivity and access to information are transforming the way young people learn, communicate and engage with the world. At the same time, environmental responsibility and global awareness are shaping the future our learners will inherit.
Our task is not simply to maintain what has been built. It is to continue building a vision for Otjikondo that prepares each new generation for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. The story of Otjikondo is still being written. Together with our teachers, learners, families, staff, volunteers, partners and supporters we continue to shape what comes next.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
The Story of Otjikondo
When Reiner and Gillian Stommel acquired Farm Otjikondo, including the buildings of a former police station, they recognised a growing need for primary school education in the area, where the only existing school was already at capacity.
Reiner, who came to Namibia from Germany in 1952 as a Catholic missionary, had spent many years building churches, schools, and supporting communities in the northwestern part of the country. Gillian shared a deep commitment to the well-being of children and young people. Together, they saw a unique opportunity.
As Namibia entered a new chapter following Independence, they envisioned a place where children from rural communities could access education, care and opportunity. What began as a simple idea grew into the Otjikondo School Village of today, influencing educational practice far beyond the region. Many teachers who began their careers at Otjikondo have gone on to leadership roles within Namibia’s education system, carrying its ideas and values with them.
Otjikondo opens its doors to 45 children. What begins as an idea becomes reality as learning and daily life start in the renovated existing buildings.
Classrooms, hostels, a dining hall and staff housing are built, creating the framework for a growing school community. Official opening by Hon. Hage Geingob.
Partnerships strengthen life at Otjikondo. Volunteers become part of daily school life and a sponsorship programme connects children with families in Germany and UK.
240 children live and learn at Otjikondo School Village. Its approach to education and care is recognised as an example of rural schooling in Namibia.
PASSING ON THE LEGACY
Carrying the Vision Forward
Following the passing of Reiner Stommel in 2022, Otjikondo entered a new chapter. Reiner had remained deeply committed to the school throughout his life and was its most passionate advocate, dedicating both energy and vision to its growth and development.
Today, Gillian Stommel continues to play an active role in the Foundation’s leadership and in matters concerning the hostel, the well-being of the children, staff and the long-term direction of the school.
For several years, responsibility has also been gradually shared with the next generation. Paul and Sara Stommel, both Directors of the Otjikondo School Village Foundation, are actively involved in the life of Otjikondo, while Jenny Freyer serves as a Foundation Director. Together, they are preparing to take on greater responsibility when Gillian chooses to step back.
They work alongside fellow Foundation Directors Henner Diekmann, Jeanetta Vermaak, Clemens von Doderer and Klaus von Klitzing, whose long-standing involvement and commitment help provide continuity, oversight and support for the Foundation’s future.
Having grown up alongside the development of Otjikondo, next generation knows the school village intimately. They understand its history, share its values, and are committed to carrying its vision forward for future generations.
Meet the members of the Otjikondo School Village Foundation
A Single Step Forward
