Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
FOR Nomthandazo Ndlovu, a Form Two learner at Sitezi Secondary School in Gwanda, the opportunity to use a computer for the first time has been nothing short of life-changing.
Her school recently received 50 computers, interactive learning boards, and a newly built science laboratory from Blanket Mine, as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme. The mining firm also refurbished classroom blocks and donated furniture to the school — a major transformation for a rural institution that had lacked such facilities since its establishment in 1981.
“I had never used a computer before, and it was a very important moment for me when I used one for the first time. The world we live in today requires us to have access to computers so that we can remain relevant. Having internet at our school will also help us with research and improve our learning,” said Nomthandazo.
Nomthandazo said the availability of technology and modern learning tools has already begun to enhance lessons.
“Our learning process has improved as we are now using interactive boards during lessons. This helps us understand concepts more quickly,” she said.
For Brighton Moyo, a Form Three pupil, the new science laboratory has finally brought his Combined Science lessons to life after three years of learning without practical experiments.
“I will now have a deeper understanding of the subject and its concepts. This will have a big impact on our performance in school. We have always been left behind, and the level of education we were receiving couldn’t compare to that of learners in urban or boarding schools. This is a major boost for us, and I will make the most of it,” he said.
Matabeleland South Provincial Education Director, Mrs Beatrice Manjere, said the investment at Sitezi Secondary School would transform the learning environment and help align rural education with the Heritage-Based Curriculum.
“The transformation and infrastructure development at Sitezi Secondary will enhance teaching and learning, providing a safe, secure, and supportive environment for learners to grow and thrive. Adequate infrastructure supports teachers in delivering high-quality instruction. Well-maintained classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and specialist rooms create a conducive environment that fosters academic achievement,” she said.
Mrs Manjere said the project would lead to improved academic outcomes, increased pupil retention, and a more positive school culture.
Caledonia Mining Corporation, the owner of Blanket Mine, has channelled over US$10 million into community development projects in Gwanda District. These include the construction of a state-of-the-art waiting mothers’ shelter, the solarisation of Sitezi Clinic, and the establishment of science and computer laboratories at Sitezi Secondary School.
The initiatives, which began in 2022, were officially handed over to the community recently during a ceremony at Sitezi Clinic in Ward 8. The modern waiting mothers’ shelter has brought relief to expectant women who previously had to travel up to 20 kilometres to reach the nearest health facility. The centre, equipped with modern ablution facilities, is expected to significantly improve maternal healthcare and reduce infant mortality rates in the area.
To ensure uninterrupted service delivery, a 48KVA solar plant was installed at the clinic, providing reliable electricity for essential health operations.
In addition, the programme has facilitated the provision of safe, potable water to Sitezi Clinic, Sitezi Secondary School and Sitezi Primary School — marking a holistic approach to improving education, health and community well-being. — @DubeMatutu
