Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
IN a significant move aimed at enhancing rural education, Vice President Kembo Mohadi has championed the rehabilitation of Mtetengwe Primary School in his home village of Beitbridge, a development that has been warmly embraced by the community.
This comes after the school was ravaged by Cyclone Idai, leaving it in a state of disrepair.
With the support of NetOne Cellular and other stakeholders, the school has undergone a remarkable transformation under the Vice President’s guidance.
Mtetengwe Primary School now serves over 500 learners from nearly eight villages. With modern facilities, the school is setting a new standard for rural education in Zimbabwe.
One of the most notable features of the rehabilitation is the establishment of a state-of-the-art computer lab.
This facility provides learners with access to essential digital learning tools and resources, making technology an integral part of their education.
In addition to the computer lab, a solar-powered borehole has been installed, ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for learners and staff.
The enhancement is crucial, not only for health and hygiene, but also for supporting agricultural programmes and ensuring proper sanitation.
The transformation of Mtetengwe Primary School is a testament to VP Mohadi and the Government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure in rural areas.
As a leader who understands the challenges faced by rural communities, VP Mohadi’s intervention has brought renewed hope to learners, teachers, and parents in Mtetengwe, located in Ward 7 under Beitbridge RDC.
His commitment to education is rooted in his personal experiences as a product of this community, and he emphasises the importance of creating opportunities for young people to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for success.
At the commissioning ceremony last Saturday, VP Mohadi highlighted that the school’s transformation is not merely about physical infrastructure; it represents a broader commitment to providing quality education.
“We gather today to celebrate not only the physical transformation of this school but also to recognise the transformative power of education,” he stated. He further stressed that education is the bedrock of national development, and the renovations that were inaugurated are evidence of a shared commitment to providing children with the best possible learning environment.
The refurbishment aligns with the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 curriculum, which focuses on teaching, research, community service, innovation, and industrialisation.
One classroom was converted into a top-tier computer lab equipped with the latest technology, including Starlink for wi-fi connectivity, whiteboard screens, and projectors.
These resources are designed to foster a modern learning environment that encourages creativity and critical thinking among learners.
There is also a nutritional garden on a one-hectare plot.
VP Mohadi planted a Mexican Apple tree known locally as Muzhanje we Chirungu in the nutritional garden.
He named the tree KCD.
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri planted her Mexican Apple tree and named it Oppah, while Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and devolution Albert Nguluvhe named his Muthavhatsindi.
VP Mohadi urged learners to make the most of the new facilities.
“Education is your passport to a better future. Work hard, dream big, and remember that the sky is not the limit; it is just the beginning.”
That message aims to inspire young minds to strive for excellence and to use the enhanced resources available to them.
VP Mohadi expressed heartfelt gratitude to corporate partners for their generous investment in the community.
He lauded their commitment to corporate social responsibility and underscored the importance of collaboration between the Government and private sector in fostering educational development.
“Your investment in our education system is an investment in the future of Zimbabwe,” he noted.
In addition to the refurbishment of the school, VP Mohadi acknowledged the support from various stakeholders, including Discovery Ambulance Services, which trained approximately 200 community members in basic first aid.
This initiative demonstrates a holistic approach to community development, addressing not only educational needs but also health and safety.
The commissioning event was marked by a Run for Life Marathon, honouring VP Mohadi’s contributions to national development before and after independence.
The marathon brought together community members in a celebration of health, unity, and progress in Zimbabwe.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri commended VP Mohadi for his leadership in driving infrastructure development from the grassroots level.
She emphasised that the refurbishment of Mtetengwe Primary School is a crucial step towards achieving the envisaged Vision 2030, as articulated by President Mnangagwa.
Minister Nguluvhe highlighted the successful implementation of this project as a prime example of what partnerships between the Government and the private sector can achieve in improving service delivery across all development sectors, especially in education.
Provincial Education Director Mrs Beatrice Manjere said improved learning facilities play a critical role in achieving the goals of the National Development Strategy 1.
“We commend the efforts by our Government through the Vice President, who supported the refurbishment of this school. It is important that we promote the creation of child friendly schools nationally to attract more learners and also help improve pass rates in our schools,” said Chief Tshitaudze from Beitbridge.
Chief Tshitaudze from Beitbridge said it was important to promote the creation of child-friendly schools nationally to attract more learners and help improve pass rates.
NetOne Cellular chief executive officer Mr Raphael Mushanawani said the company’s interventions at Mtetengwe are not symbolic, but substantial.
He noted that learners of Mtetengwe are no longer just rural learners; they are digital pioneers.
“These milestones form part of our broader Connecting Communities and OneHealth initiatives, aligning with the National Development Strategy 1, which emphasises human capital development and digital innovation,” he explained.
Mr Mushanawani highlighted that the transformation of rural education is a national project.
“Rural Zimbabwe is no longer watching the world from afar—it is participating in it, shaping it, and benefiting from it,” he said.
This vision of inclusivity is crucial for the holistic development of the nation.
The rehabilitation of Mtetengwe Primary School stands as a powerful example of effective leadership and community engagement.
VP Mohadi’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to investing in the future of young people, thereby contributing to a brighter future for Zimbabwe as a whole.
