The Education, Arts and Culture Minister has warned teachers against absenteeism. Katrina Hanse-Himarwa issued the warning after Otjozondjupa Education Director, Simon Tsuseb, raised concern about absenteeism among teachers. Tsuseb described absenteeism as a major concern and challenge to education in the region. Hanse-Himarwa said the practice is virtually the same as corruption and directed that principals must keep proper records and take action against such teachers. She reminded the principals, teachers and education inspectors to always remember that the ministry educates and trains learners to prepare them for the future. The minister urged regional politicians and school supervisors to vehemently condemn any type of negligence, laziness, absence without leave and sluggishness by any teacher. She issued the warning at a meeting she held with principals of 71 private schools at Otjiwarongo on Wednesday. Otjozondjupa Region ranks tenth nationally in the Junior Secondary Certificate and first in the Grade 12 Higher Level examination-based on the 2017 rankings.