Vandalism in Namibian schools and hostels: The case of Otjozondjupa and Kunene educational regions
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Date
2006
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Abstract
The purpose of the study is to find out the rate, extent and causes of vandalism in Namibian schools and hostels in two regions
An interview protocol consisting of structured as well as open ended questions was used together with a questionnaire consisting of a combined set of scaled, structured and open ended questions which was answered by principals, management members and hostel supervisory staff and matrons. Site observation at schools and hostels was also conducted
The school management members, hostel supervisors and matrons unanimously confirmed that vandalism is taking place at their schools and hostels. Vandalism was regarded as taking place very often, often and as seldom to never, by most respondents
Learners and boarders were seen to be the major culprits of acts of vandalism at schools and hostels. Some causes of vandalism were given as lack of discipline, boredom, lack of supervision and lack of parental involvement. Community members and uncontrolled visitors were seen to be the second major group of culprits committing acts of vandalism, after the learners, and boarders. Teachers and other staff members however were regarded as not committing any acts of vandalism
Toilets, fences, windows, desks, chairs, lockers and mattresses are some of the most vandalized items. Vandalism was viewed as having a negative impact on the school/hostel culture and climate.
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Crime, Boarding schools