Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
THE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been commended for investing in Zimbabwe’s education sector, with its support contributing to the construction of modern classroom blocks in districts across Mashonaland East Province.
This week, the church commissioned three classroom blocks in Goromonzi District at a ceremony officiated by Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Advocate Itayi Mdudzo.
Adv Mdudzo first commissioned a two-classroom block for Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners at St James Craig Primary School before proceeding to Parirewa Primary School, where he commissioned a three-classroom block for ECD learners and another two-classroom block for junior learners.
The ECD classroom blocks were funded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while the two-classroom block for junior learners at Parirewa Primary School was constructed through a partnership between parents and Goromonzi Rural District Council.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremonies, Adv Mdudzo thanked the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for supporting infrastructure development in the education sector.
He said such partnerships were important in complementing the Government’s efforts to improve the learning environment for pupils.
“This is not merely the unveiling of brick and mortar; it is the celebration of a shared vision, a testament to collaboration, and a monumental investment in the minds and futures of our young generation,” he said.
“Allow me to extend my deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We applaud the leadership and the entire congregation for their foresight and benevolence in creating a safe, secure, and conducive learning environment for our youngest learners.
“The construction of these state-of-the-art ECD and junior classroom blocks is a transformative act that will leave an indelible mark on our community. We are particularly indebted to the Church for the generous donation of US$216 000, a substantial contribution which was directed towards both St James Creig Primary School and Parirewa Primary School.
“This act of giving powerfully embodies the principle that faith, to be truly alive, must be accompanied by works. Indeed, faith without work is dead, and through this tangible manifestation of your faith, you have breathed life into the educational aspirations of countless children.”
Adv Ndudzo also applauded the contributions by various stakeholders to ensure the projects are a success.
“I also pause to acknowledge the exemplary work of the School Development Committee (SDC) at Parirewa Primary School,” he said.
“Their dedication and meticulous effort in constructing a state-of-the-art classroom block is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaborative effort.
“We applaud their unwavering commitment and the vital involvement of the entire community, whose collective hands and hearts have built not just a structure, but a sanctuary of learning.
“This spirit of self-reliance and community ownership is the bedrock upon which we will build a prosperous nation.”
Advocate Ndudzo also applauded the astute leadership of the Chief Director Provincial Education Service.
“We acknowledge and commend her steadfast commitment to improving the standard of education, particularly in our rural areas,” he said.
“Her vision and guidance are instrumental in ensuring that no child is left behind, and that our rural schools are equipped to compete on a national stage. Her dedication reminds us of our collective responsibility-Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo – a nation is built by its own people.
“In this vein, we are reminded of our national vision, Vision 2030, which seeks to empower every citizen, with a special focus on the girl child.
“By providing modern, safe, and inspiring learning spaces, we are actively dismantling barriers and creating an environment where every child, regardless of gender, can dream, achieve, and lead.”
He said the continued collaboration between the Church, the Government, and the community is a powerful engine for sustainable development and social progress.
He used the platform to urge learners to focus on education and desist from abusing drugs and substances.
“Let us now turn our attention to the crucial matter of stewardship. These new buildings are not just for today’s students, but for generations to come,” he said.
“I urge the school administration, the SDC, and the entire community to protect and maintain these newly established assets with the utmost care. This includes the pivotal ablution facility, whose presence is fundamental to the health, dignity, and well-being of our learners. Its proper upkeep is non-negotiable.
“I must touch upon a critical issue that affects the daily lives of our students: the issue of Drug and Substance abuse. I urge the school authority to engage in constructive dialogue to find amicable and sustainable solutions.
“To the community and the teachers, I make a fervent appeal: let us work together to take care of our students. They are our most precious resource. Let us ensure they are safe, supported, and nurtured, both within these new classrooms.”
Zimbabwe Stake president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Mr Panganai Chitiyo, said the church will continue complementing the Government in the development of Zimbabwe.
“We are committed to ensuring that learners have a conducive environment as they receive their education,” he said.
“The church works closely with the Government, and we will continue to complement the Government in all the development projects.”
