Jolly Grammar 2 Lights Up Classrooms Across Namibia

To ensure quality implementation, 225 Heads of Department (HoDs) were trained to monitor the implementation of the programme as well as to mentor teachers and track progress using the Jolly Monitor App. A national Training of Trainers (ToT) programme, launched in September 2023, has since developed over 28 accredited trainers and four specialised literacy coaches who provide ongoing classroom support. This has aimed at ensuring continued sustainability of the programme in schools, by enabling future cohorts of teachers to receive training to deliver Jolly Phonics and Jolly Grammar lessons.

Namibia is the first African country to implement both Jolly Grammar 1 and 2 at a national level. The government has invested immensely in the procurement of teaching and learning resources to enable teachers to receive training and effectively implement the programme in their schools. Further to this, in 2025, both government and private schools have started trialling Jolly Classroom, a digital, web-based platform designed to deliver the Jolly Phonics programme effectively in the classroom, making it the first African country to do so on such a large scale.

The structured, multisensory approach has led to notable improvements in learners' phonemic awareness, decoding, spelling, and reading comprehension. Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) data and classroom observations reflect strong gains by the end of Grade 2. Educators have reported increased confidence and improved instructional practices as a result of the comprehensive training and resources received.

The initiative has been made possible through the strong and visionary leadership and investment of the MEIYSAC and close collaboration with Jolly Futures, a division of Jolly Learning Limited, which has continued to contribute technical expertise beyond the initial donation of key learning materials during the initial rollout of Jolly Phonics in 2022. It would be an error not to mention the dedicated education officials, regional directors, and school leadership teams whose coordination and support have been instrumental in the successful national rollout and implementation of Jolly Phonics and Jolly Grammar.

Namibia's investment in foundational literacy is already delivering measurable impact and stands as a model for other African nations. With continued commitment, the programme is expected to drive long-term improvements in literacy outcomes nationwide.