‘Education isn’t the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think’

Education is a key that opens doors to endless possibilities, PPC Zimbabwe Head of Sales and Marketing Mr Nkosana Mapuma has said.

To make it in today’s world, he said, one needs to have critical thinking skills, excellent communication skills and the ability to adapt in order to unlock opportunities and create a successful future.

Speaking at a recent Speech and Prize Giving Day ceremony at Founders High School in Bulawayo where he was Guest of Honour, Mr Mapuma said success is not a destination, but a continuous process of growth and self-improvement.

“Education is a key that unlocks the doors of opportunity, and it is up to you to use this key to create the life you desire. As you embark on your journey, remember that success is not a destination, but a continuous process of growth and self-improvement,” said Mr Mapuma.

He said education not only provides knowledge but also equips individuals with the tools to grow and succeed in life.

Mr Mapuma highlighted the significance of developing a growth mindset.

“One of the most important aspects of education is the development of a growth mindset. This means embracing challenges, persisting through obstacles, and continuously learning and improving. With a growth mindset, you will be able to adapt to the ever-changing world and capitalise on new opportunities as they arise,” said Mr Mapuma.

He asked the learners, “Who wants a book,” to prompt action and emphasise the importance of taking action rather than simply wishing, dreaming, or planning.

Mr Mapuma encouraged learners to actively pursue their goals and aspirations, reminding them that success is not a destination but a continuous process of growth and self-improvement.

“Think in other terms, focus on being a four-dimensional thinker. Four dimensional thinking involves bringing the past, present, and future into one and uniting heart and mind. Successful people act now and explain later. It’s better to regret the things you have done, than regret the things you haven’t done. What the mind can conceive and believe, the body can achieve. The problem is most of us don’t believe. We have little faith in our abilities. We think it’s for others and not us. If not for me, then who?” said Mr Mapuma.

He highlighted the critical skills needed in our ever-changing world, emphasising the importance of critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, communication, and resilience.

Mr Mapuma said education is not just about learning facts, but about training the mind to think critically.

“Most of you argue that Mathematics has no value in my life, after all, I want to be a lawyer, a musician or a poet. Mathematics helps develop critical thinking skills.

“Recognise cultural diversity, changing gender roles. Have social etiquette, initiative and drive. Know what you want and go for it. Swim upstream like a koi fish. Dare to follow your true path and not someone’s path. Know yourself, understand your strengths and weaknesses, take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves, and be motivated by the threats around you. Threats are meant to make you stronger and agile, only if you embrace them. Steve Jobs once said, ‘Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.’ Your life is yours to live, and your future is yours to create. So go out there and make it happen,” said Mr Mapuma.

He emphasised the importance of verbal and non-verbal communication, urging learners to embrace virtual communication platforms like Microsoft Teams and Google Meet.

Mr Mapuma said communication is not just a management skill but a life skill, encompassing the ability to express oneself effectively and influence those around them.

“In conclusion, I want to leave you with a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson: ‘The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance’.”

Founders High School headmistress Ms Dorothea Moyo highlighted the school’s commitment to inclusive education.

“Our principle of inclusive education means that we take all activities inside and outside the classroom seriously. Our current generation of learners are faced with many temptations. Drug and substance abuse is a cancer affecting our proud nation. We don’t believe in idle minds ladies and gentlemen, our robust support systems for sports, arts and culture are producing exceptional results. Founders High School is a force to reckon with not only in Bulawayo but nationally,” she said.

Ms Moyo emphasised the importance of collaboration between educators and parents in ensuring the overall development and success of the learners.

Quoting the late former South African president Nelson Mandela, Ms Moyo said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

She urged everyone to join hands in providing quality education that ignites passion, unlocks potential, and creates a brighter and more equitable future for all.

“Our examination results continue on an upward trajectory. This shows our commitment to always reflect on our performance systems and thrive to push the bar higher. As our examination results are way above the national average, we believe that we have the capacity to do even better as we move into the future.”

One learner, Lizzy Nduna, achieved a remarkable feat by publishing a novel that is now available on Amazon. The novel showcases the exceptional talent and creativity of the school’s learners.

Another pupil, Henry Mujati went away with 10 awards for being the best student in nine subjects and overall best student in Form Four. — @TashaMutsiba.