A Vision for Inclusion: Stepping Stone Special Education School Begins New Chapter

Swakopmund, Namibia – May 2025

Stepping Stone Special Education School, Namibia’s first registered private institution dedicated to neurodivergent children, has reached a monumental milestone—one that promises to change the lives of many children and families across the country.

Founded in 2015 by Almarie and Divan Mostert, the school has become a beacon of hope for children with diverse learning and developmental needs. What began as a modest vision has blossomed into a transformative educational journey—and now, it is taking a giant leap forward.

With over 50 children currently enrolled and a growing waiting list, the school has officially broken ground on a new facility located in Ocean View, Swakopmund. This new chapter is made possible through the incredible generosity of Southern Energy Company, which is fully funding the construction of the school building.

“This project is not just about bricks and mortar,” says founder Almarie Mostert. “It’s about building a future where every child, regardless of their challenges, has a place to learn, grow, and thrive.”

A Home for the Visually Impaired

In a heartfelt and deeply personal expansion, the new facility will also include a dedicated division for blind and visually impaired learners—a commitment rooted in Almarie’s own life story. Both she and her sister live with visual impairments, and their late brother was fully blind. This addition isn’t just a facility upgrade—it’s a powerful step toward inclusion and accessibility in education.

The first intake of visually impaired students is expected when the school officially opens its new doors in January 2026.

Community Support Building the Future

The journey to this point has been a collective effort. Stepping Stone has long relied on school fees and community support, with notable contributions from partners such as the German Embassy, Namibia Facilities Management, and Orano Mining Namibia, who generously sponsored a classroom.

Local construction firm K Neumayer is managing the build, offering their expertise at reduced rates and also donating a classroom—another testament to the spirit of giving that surrounds this initiative.

More Than a School – A Stepping Stone to Possibility

As we move closer to 2026, the excitement within the community continues to grow. The collaboration with a school for the blind marks a transformative shift in what inclusive education can look like in Namibia.

The Stepping Stone team extends heartfelt thanks to every individual and organization that has helped bring this dream within reach. Their belief in this cause is building more than just classrooms—it’s building futures.