Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
SCHOOLS in Gokwe North District, Midlands Province are undergoing major infrastructural upgrades with new buildings at various stages of completion ahead of the national Independence Day celebrations on April 18.
The decision to host the national commemorations in Gokwe North has brought significant benefits to local schools as several institutions are witnessing a massive transformation.
The improvements align with this year’s Independence Day theme, “Zimbabwe@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030,” which emphasises inclusive development and national unity in the pursuit of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
The celebrations are not just a symbolic event but a catalyst for tangible development in the district.
Chief director in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, Engineer Trevor Magwaza said while many schools have set up village business units, Nyamuroro Primary and Nembudziya Secondary Schools have emerged as the biggest beneficiaries with new structures being erected.
He said at Nembudziya Secondary School, Government is constructing five new buildings including an administration block and classroom blocks.
“We are almost at roof level and all roofing materials are now on site,” said Eng Magwaza.
Similarly, at Nyamuroro Primary School which will host the children’s party, new dormitories are under construction.
“There is massive progress and we are also sprucing up existing buildings in preparation for the occasion,” he added.
The infrastructural improvements have sparked excitement within the local community. Nembudziya Secondary School deputy head, Mrs Estheri Mbavha expressed gratitude for the long-awaited upgrades.
“We have always dreamt of having an administration block at our school. Thanks to the Independence Day celebrations, we are now witnessing these long-overdue developments,” she said.
Zanu-PF Midlands Province chairperson, Cde Edison Chiherenge, commended the Second Republic for selecting Gokwe North as the host district. He said the event has stimulated local economic activity.
“The decision to host the celebrations here has boosted business at Nembudziya Growth Point and Mutora Business Centre. Several life-changing projects are being implemented including road rehabilitation and the installation of solar-powered boreholes at schools. Gokwe will never be the same again,” he said.
Learners are also celebrating the changes recognising their long-term benefits. Trymore Sibanda, a learner at Nembudziya Secondary School said the school’s learning environment will improve.
“Our school will never be the same again. We are excited about the progress, and I’m told that once the upgrades are complete, we will eliminate hot-sitting, which could boost our pass rate,” he said.
