Online Reporter
Lovemore Dube, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE Minister of Primary and Secondary School Education, Torerayi Moyo, has commended Old Mutual and CABS for their role in cricket development in the country.
He was the guest of honour at the Old Mutual Cricket Ground in Bulawayo where there was a tournament for Colts (Under-10s and Under-13s).
Minister Moyo said the companies’ support has in the past impacted positively on the lives of countless schoolchildren.
“Your generosity and unwavering support have profoundly impacted the lives of countless students. Through your contributions we have been able to enhance our sports programmes, groom future sporting legends and foster a spirit of teamwork, discipline and excellence among our learners,” said Minister Moyo.
He said sporting experiences promote wellness and instil values that extend beyond the cricket field.
Minister Moyo said the companies had also invested in education which is something that has helped bridge gaps and created fresh minds in learning environments. This he said has offered opportunities that would have been out of reach for some children.
“Your commitment ensures that every student has the chance to thrive in sports and develop skills that are vital for their future success,” the minister said.
He emphasised the need for a spirit of community and the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the Government.
“Together, we are shaping a bright future, one where every child has access to quality education and the encouragement to pursue their passions,” he said.
He said the Government was happy to see one student, one game and one lesson at a time being encouraged by Old Mutual and CABS in the power of education and sport transforming lives.
To the pupils drawn from schools from Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, he said sports like cricket teach teamwork, discipline, patience and how to stay focused on education and life. He said both education and sport were important.
“Doing well in school helps you learn new things, open new doors and build bright futures.
“Playing sports keeps you active, healthy and teaches you how to work with others,” said Moyo adding that a good student and a good player work hard.
The minister also spoke about the issue of drugs and substance abuse, encouraging children to advise teachers and parents of their peers.
Minister Moyo who presented the Player of the Tournament Award named after him, added US$100 to the medal and certificate awarded to Anenyasha Mazambara an Old Mutual Colts player.
The Deputy Minister of Sport, Emily Jesaya was also in attendance with Sport and Recreation Commission board member Dave Simba and deputy director in the Ministry of Sport, Isaiah Mpofu.
Gladys Bugalo who spoke on behalf of the sponsors said Old Mutual had been with the host academy led by board president Joseph Rego since 2013.
She said Old Mutual believes in investing in young people because they are the future of communities.
She said cricket does much more for children as it builds character, teamwork, discipline and leadership. She said these qualities go beyond the cricket pitch.
“At Old Mutual, we want the same bright future for every family as we do for every young cricketer playing here. That is why we offer real, practical solutions to help families plan, protect and grow,” she said as they marked 13 years of involvement with the Old Mutual Cricket Centre of Excellence.
In the Colts category, the Old Mutual Academy beat Mtshingwe by 23 runs in the final.
Mazambara won the batsman of the tournament scoring 108 runs in four innings.
In the Under-13s Mtshingwe, who entered the tournament as defending champions and favourites, beat Mazwi by four wickets in the final.
Rego described the tournament as a huge success and thanked sponsors for their support.
“Corporate support did it for the kids and cricket. We are happy as an academy to avail opportunities and help develop talent from an early stage,” said Rego.
