Rutendo Nyeve
PLANS to construct a second council high school in Victoria Falls have received a major boost after Cardinal Corporation pledged to build the first two classroom blocks as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.
Construction of the blocks at Mosi-oa-Tunya 2 High School is expected to begin immediately.
The school has been part of the local authority’s development plans, with the City of Victoria Falls setting up a fundraising committee to mobilise resources towards its construction.
At a recent function, Cardinal Corporation announced its commitment to construct two classroom blocks through a joint venture involving the company and the City of Victoria Falls, operating under Khula Development.
Khula Development chairperson Mr Herbert Nkala said the company’s contribution was intended to support the development of the school and strengthen partnerships between the public and private sectors.
“Cardinal Corporation will also construct two school classrooms at Mosi 2 School as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility. May this development become a symbol of growth, partnership and opportunity, and a lasting legacy for Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe. May this development stand as a symbol of partnership between Government, Council and the private sector,” he said.
Victoria Falls Town Clerk Mr Ronnie Dube commended the partnership, saying the wider development was expected to stimulate investment, create economic opportunities and strengthen the city’s position as a leading tourism destination.
“This milestone also demonstrates the importance of the Triple Ps — Public-Private Partnerships — in accelerating development. Council continues to embrace partnerships that mobilise private capital, expertise and innovation while ensuring that development responds to public needs. These partnerships must also go beyond business. We appreciate partners who demonstrate Corporate Social Responsibility and give back to the communities in which they operate,” he said.
“In this regard, Cardinal Corporation’s pledge to construct classroom blocks at Mosi-oa-Tunya 2 High School, which is currently under construction, is commendable. Such initiatives demonstrate that development is most meaningful when it improves people’s lives, supports education and expands opportunities for future generations.”
Mr Dube expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works for its guidance and support, the Mayor and councillors for their leadership, Cardinal Corporation for its partnership, as well as management, employees, residents and other stakeholders for contributing to the city’s development.
