From extra-lessons to building a new school, young visionary inspires Emganwini

A 25-year-old Bulawayo youth, driven by a passion to uplift his community, has entered the education sector by establishing a new transformative school project in Emganwini suburb.

A brainchild of Tatenda Mudzokora, an accounting graduate turned social entrepreneur, the project aims to bridge educational gaps in under-served communities.

Located at the Nkosilathi section of Emganwini, Milestone Scholars Academy is being established as a social enterprise with a mission to build a future where no child or youth is left behind in an increasingly digital world.

Tatenda’s journey began in 2021 when, like many graduates in Zimbabwe, he struggled to secure employment.
Rather than drown in frustration, he turned his focus toward young people in his neighbourhood.

Armed with nothing but determination and a handful of eager learners, he began offering informal lessons in a local church.

“What we are building here is not just a school, but a sanctuary for dreams. Young people deserve opportunities that match the world they live in,” he told Chronicle in an interview.

“If we don’t empower them now, we risk losing a generation.”
In 2022, Tatenda’s small tutorial initiative, then known as Milestone Tutorials, recorded a 100 percent pass rate with its inaugural class of 25 students.

Word spread quickly, the community rallied behind him, and the modest classes soon blossomed into a fully structured learning programme.

Over time, the project has expanded its scope to offer leadership development, public speaking training, and additional support systems for young learners.

By 2025, the institution had supported 125 students, with the vision now extending toward empowering at least 200 learners under the new academy model.

The establishment of a new school marks a leap in Mudzokora’s mission as the facility aims to go beyond the chalkboard, integrating modern technologies and holistic development programmes to prepare youths for a rapidly changing global landscape.

Its approach is anchored in community involvement, innovation, and a strong commitment to inclusivity, he added.
“A defining feature of the academy is the upcoming digital house, an ambitious initiative set to transform the learning experience for both enrolled and out-of-school youths,” he said.

“We will have an e-library for research and independent study, provide digital skills training, including AI literacy and coding, employability preparation, including freelancing and soft skills, a ‘learn and earn’ model allowing youths to build competencies while exploring income-generating opportunities,” said Tatenda.

Through a partnership with Shasha Network in Scotland, the young institution has already secured an e-library resource package and Starlink internet connectivity for high-speed digital access.

“The pilot phase will test how young people can acquire relevant digital skills and seamlessly transition into both local and global job markets. The young academy has already made significant progress toward setting up the digital house,” said Mudzokora.

“We have already set up a classroom that has been secured for conversion into a digital learning hub. Plans are in motion to install security features and, in the near future, purchase a mobile solar-powered digital container to expand capacity,” he said.

Mudzokora said the institution is in the process of acquiring 15 computers, which will be preloaded with e-learning materials, digital skills modules, and research resources.

“Solar infrastructure is to be installed to ensure uninterrupted learning and reduced electricity costs. The academy has also received applications from qualified IT and digital skills tutors, with recruitment expected to commence in early 2026,” said Mudzokora.

He said in a community often overshadowed by limited resources and economic challenges, the new learning facility stands as a symbol of resilience and possibility.

Mudzokora’s initiative has already become a lifeline for many youths who previously lacked a structured space to learn, explore, and grow.

“With the right support, we can ensure that no youth is left behind. Education is the one tool that can transform lives — and together, we can build a future where opportunities exist for every child,” he said.