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Speaking during the joint commissioning of the Landa J High School and launch of the Presidential E-learning programme for the southern region at Manqe, 10km west of Tsholotsho Business Centre, VP Mujuru said Zimbabwe had made great strides in manpower development courtesy of the visionary leadership of President Mugabe.
“His Excellency President Mugabe has passion for education from his days as an ordinary teacher, in detention and in the bush during the liberation struggle and after independence up to date. It is true that high literacy rates that Zimbabwe has come to be known for is attributed to his genius and unwavering dedication,” said VP Mujuru.
“Today, over 8 500 students have attained first degrees, masters and doctorates under the Presidential Scholarship programme. The scheme targets academically gifted students from poor backgrounds. I have met gardeners, maids and widows whose children have benefited from the programme. Every district has people who have benefited from this initiative.”
VP Mujuru described President Mugabe as an academic icon.
She paid tribute to him and his Government for influencing the introduction of secondary education to formerly marginalised rural communities at the attainment of independence.
Said VP Mujuru: “He introduced secondary education to the formally marginalised rural communities. I myself am one of the beneficiaries of such intellectual benevolence embodied in our guest of honour. President Mugabe initiated the computerisation programme as early as 1999 in a bid to bridge the technological divide between rural and urban areas.”
VP Mujuru said President Mugabe was the most distinguished African leader to fight neo-colonialism through policies such as the historic land reform programme that has seen thousands of ordinary Zimbabweans allocated land.
She expressed optimism that the ongoing indigenisation and economic empowerment programme would bring total poverty eradication among Zimbabweans.
“Our President is the repository of Pan-Africanism and all leaders seek advice from him. He has been engaged in different peace initiatives in countries such as Nigeria, Mozambique and Somalia,” said VP Mujuru.
Online Reporter