Namibia College of Open Learning stopped more than 110 worker contracts this month. These people worked across different departments, such as warehouses, computers, money handling, office work, and student help. Management made this choice on May 5 after the school break ended. Some workers had their contracts renewed many times over 20 years. The school hired these people for set periods rather than permanent jobs.
Workers say the school told them about losing their jobs through phone messages and calls. Many of these people worked at the school for up to 25 years. The workers claim that permanent staff members are fewer than contract workers at the school. They say permanent workers must work extra hours to finish all the tasks. The affected group has talked to the school board about this problem.
Executive officer Ngepathimo Kadhila says the school did not fire anyone. He explains that contracts reached their end dates and were not extended. The school wants to fix past mistakes that let contract workers stay longer than 24 months. Kadhila says no new people have been hired for these jobs. The school plans to advertise open positions for everyone to apply.
Workers say the school told them about losing their jobs through phone messages and calls. Many of these people worked at the school for up to 25 years. The workers claim that permanent staff members are fewer than contract workers at the school. They say permanent workers must work extra hours to finish all the tasks. The affected group has talked to the school board about this problem.
Executive officer Ngepathimo Kadhila says the school did not fire anyone. He explains that contracts reached their end dates and were not extended. The school wants to fix past mistakes that let contract workers stay longer than 24 months. Kadhila says no new people have been hired for these jobs. The school plans to advertise open positions for everyone to apply.
