Online Reporter
Africa Moyo and Thupeyo Muleya in BEITBRIDGE
COMPANIES play a critical role in nation-building through partnerships with the Government in life-transforming investments, especially in the social services sector, Vice President Kembo Mohadi has said.
Speaking at the handover and commissioning of renovation works done by NetOne Cellular at Mtetengwe Primary School here yesterday, the VP restated that education is the bedrock of national development, which demands the involvement of everyone.
“Education is the bedrock of our nation’s development, and the renovations we inaugurate today are evidence to our shared commitment to providing our children with the best possible learning environment,” he said.
“The classrooms, libraries and facilities that we unveiled today (yesterday) are more than just structures; they are sanctuaries of knowledge, creativity and hope for our future leaders. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to selfless corporations for their generous investment in our community and for their commitment to corporate social responsibility.”
VP Mohadi added that the investment in Zimbabwe’s education system is an investment in the country’s future.
“Through your initiatives, you have demonstrated that corporate entities can play a pivotal role in nation-building. It is my hope that this partnership will inspire other organisations to contribute towards the betterment of our communities.
“May you also do the same for other communities throughout the country, with the mantra ‘leaving no one and no place behind’,” said VP Mohadi.
Mtetengwe Primary School, which has an enrolment of 501 learners and caters for over seven villages, was damaged by Cyclone Idai and has been in bad shape for some time, prompting VP Mohadi’s Office to engage partners to help in the renovation of the institution.
Some partners renovated classrooms, others donated renovation materials and yet others took part in the actual work at the site.
One of the partners sponsored a solarised borehole and a nutritional garden on one hectare, where horticultural projects have started.
In line with the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 curriculum and the digital literacy policy, one of the classrooms was turned into a top-of-the-range computer lab with latest computers, Starlink for WiFi connectivity, whiteboard screens and projectors.
In the nutritional garden, VP Mohadi planted a Mexican apple tree and named it KCD, while Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri planted hers and named it Oppah.
The commissioning of the renovation works was preceded by a Run for Life Marathon, organised in honour of VP Mohadi’s contribution to national development before and after independence. He later handed medals to winners of the marathon, who included people with disabilities, and handed over empowerment funds to Crossborders 4ED (US$20 000), Pastors4ED (US$10 000), Hairdressers 4ED (US$10 000) and children of war veterans (US$50 000). The funds are revolving.
Minister Muchinguri commended VP Mohadi for leading infrastructure development from the grassroots level.
She said the refurbishment of Mtetengwe Primary School was a right step towards achieving the Vision 2030, as set out by President Mnangagwa.
Online Reporter