Construction of Karoi College of Education begins

Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter

THE Government has taken a major step towards expanding access to teacher training and higher education following the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Karoi College of Education, a landmark institution expected to transform education and economic development in Mashonaland West Province.

The college, which will be the first teacher-training institution in the province, is being developed through a partnership involving Government, the Roman Catholic Church and local authorities.

The project is expected to increase teacher-training capacity, create employment opportunities and contribute to the production of skilled human capital required for national development.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Karoi yesterday, Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Director Mr Darlington Damba, who was representing the Minister, Dr Frederick Shava, said the coming of the institution was in line with Government efforts to expand access to quality higher education.

“The establishment of this institution aligns with Government’s vision of expanding access to quality higher and tertiary education while producing skilled human capital for national development,” said Dr Shava.

He said the college would strengthen teacher education and increase opportunities for students from Mashonaland West and surrounding provinces to access professional training closer to their communities.

Dr Shava said the project was also expected to contribute to the attainment of Vision 2030 through the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and economic growth.

Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo described the project as a significant milestone for the province and a demonstration of successful partnerships in development.

“This project is a clear demonstration of the approach to development being championed by Government,” she said.

She commended the Roman Catholic Church and other stakeholders for investing in education, saying the institution would create opportunities for young people while stimulating economic activity in the province.

Minister Chombo also said the college would improve access to higher learning and support efforts to achieve inclusive development by ensuring communities in Mashonaland West benefit from modern educational infrastructure.

Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chinhoyi, Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa, said the church remains committed to complementing Government efforts in national development through education.

“This institution will help shape future generations and equip students with skills needed to contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.

Bishop Mupandasekwa said education remains one of the most effective tools for empowering communities and creating opportunities for sustainable development.

Karoi Town Council mayor Councillor Kudakwashe Chigomo said the project represents a major milestone in the town’s growth and development.

“The college will improve access to education while creating employment opportunities and stimulating business activity in Karoi,” he said.

Cllr Chigomo said the institution would boost demand for accommodation, transport and other services, helping to strengthen the local economy.

He added that the development would enhance Karoi’s status as an emerging educational hub and attract further investment into the town.

Residents welcomed the project, saying it would bring educational opportunities closer to communities in Hurungwe District.

Mr Aleck Sakala said the college was long overdue for one of the country’s largest districts.

“Many young people have had to leave the district to pursue teacher training. This institution will bring those opportunities closer to home,” he said.

Mr Sakala said the project would also create business opportunities and attract investment, benefiting local communities.

Youth leaders also hailed the development, saying it would empower young people through education and skills training.

ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Youth Chairperson Cde Tapiwa Masenda said the institution would create opportunities for education, employment and personal development.

“The college will empower young people with skills and help address challenges such as drug and substance abuse,” he said.

Construction of the institution is expected to be completed next year.