Chronicle Editor
Kudzai Chikiwa, Chronicle Reporter
GOVERNMENT has urged the corporate world to assist rural schools with building material as most of them still have poor infrastructure.
Khami District Schools Inspector Mrs Jane Ndebele made the call during the handover ceremony of 75 roofing sheets to Khami Prison Primary School by Turnall Holdings yesterday.
Mrs Ndebele said due to financial constraints, most schools are struggling to complete construction projects.
“Most companies that sell building material are now demanding foreign currency which our schools are not able to pay since pupils pay in local currency. We call upon the corporate world to consider assisting schools with material as part of their corporate social responsibility,” she said.
Mrs Ndebele said companies should complement Government’s efforts to develop schools since it is a collective responsibility.
“This is not a sole responsibility of the Government, we need both your hands to make learning institutions conducive for our kids. When our kids are safe it means the nation is safe as these are our future leaders,” she said.
Mrs Ndebele commended Turnall Holdings for donating roofing sheets to Khami Prison Primary School. “This building has been standing for some time without any roofing. I want to appreciate this company for meeting us at our point of need. Pupils were just learning in an open air exposing them to bad weather,” she said.
Turnall Holdings Managing Director Ms Rose Chisveto said the donation is part of their corporate social responsibility.
She said they have a thrust to support the education sector in the country.
“Turnall is here to enrich the lives of Zimbabweans, in particular our own children who are the future leaders.’ We value the education of this young generation for they hold our tomorrow,” she said.
“This donation fits our company’s mission statement that says we enrich African lives and build stakeholder value by providing high quality, affordable and environmentally friendly construction materials using the talent and passion of our people in the safest, ethical and professional manner.”
Ms Chisveto said as their company celebrates 75 years of existence, they invited communities across the country to submit suitable projects that would benefit their areas.
“Khami Prison Primary School submitted the best project in this region. This project will benefit surrounding communities, a key aspect of the criteria we used,” she said.
Ms Chisveto said the company believes in transforming lives through education. — @tamary98.
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