Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
SOME 174 military personnel graduated from the Zimbabwe National Army Ordinance and Transport Training School during its first graduation parade of 2026 held at Khumalo Barracks in Bulawayo on Friday.
The ceremony, hosted at the ZNA’s One Infantry Brigade Headquarters, was attended by senior military officials and instructors, among other guests who gathered to witness the completion of five specialised military logistics and transport courses.
The graduates completed courses in senior stores management, mechanical transport junior non-commissioned members’ administration, basic learner drivers, driving and maintenance instructors, as well as basic stores management.
ZNA director of transport, Colonel Stanley Mashava, who officiated as guest of honour, commended the institution for producing skilled personnel critical to the army’s logistics and transport operations.
He urged the graduates to exercise wisdom and discipline as they begin applying their newly acquired skills in the field.
“As you leave the school today, bear in mind that opportunities are not always as bright as you think. They may eventually turn into disappointments,” said Col Mashava.
“You therefore need to make your choices based on sound information if you want to prosper in your chosen careers.”
Col Mashava applauded the command structure and support departments that continue to ensure the successful running of the institution and its training programmes.
“I would like to thank the Commandant, the commander-in-charge of the One Infantry Brigade, in whose premises the school is located, and the commander-in-charge of the district for his administration and logistic support, including the staff branch, the army quarters and the logistics corps for their persistent and consistent support in facilitating the smooth running of this school and courses.”
Col Mashava also paid tribute to traditional leaders and surrounding communities in Matabeleland for supporting the school’s training activities.
“Let me take this opportunity to express my appreciation to all the traditional leaders within the Matabeleland region and the local community for allowing the Ordinance and Transport Training School to use their land for its training activities.”
Col Mashava further acknowledged the contribution of learning institutions and private sector partners that continue to support the school.
These include Bulawayo Polytechnic, Westgate Training Centre, VIT Bulawayo, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Wolite Inn, Rainbow Hotel, Becker’s Inn, Encircle Cement and Ongi Mine.
He also commended instructors, families and spouses for the sacrifices made during the training period.
“You sacrificed time with your families for the success of these graduates. I would like to thank your spouses, parents and friends for their awesome support despite being away from each other over the past couple of weeks,” he said.
Addressing the graduates, Col Mashava challenged them to uphold professionalism and apply the logistics and driving skills acquired during training.
“Let me also congratulate the graduates for having completed the courses in your various capacities. Go out there and apply the logistics concepts and driving skills as taught,” he said.
