Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter
Government recognises education as a powerful tool to lift families out of poverty, while cultivating a skilled workforce to drive Zimbabwe’s development on all fronts, President Mnangagwa has said.
In his address at the ED-UNZA Golf Prize Giving Dinner and Fundraiser held at State House in Harare on Friday, the President said his administration was resolute in its commitment to ensuring that every young Zimbabwean, regardless of background, has access to education, mentorship and the educational tools they need to succeed.
“We must be proud that Zimbabwe continues to make significant strides in this regard, with learning institutions churning out holistic graduates who are equipped for both present and future socio-economic, industrial and technological realities.
“On my part, as President, I remain committed to addressing socio-economic challenges that hinder access to education.
“It is in this spirit that the ED-UNZA Scholarship Fund was established,” he said.
President Mnangagwa reiterated his commitment to uplifting the lives of vulnerable children with the ED-UNZA Scholarship Fund testament to this commitment.
The Scholarship Fund plans to provide for 100 students each year by 2026.
“It is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and unity of purpose in addressing the socio-economic needs, of those from underprivileged background,” he said.
The President went on to quote scriptures that had inspired and encouraged his patronage of the ED-UNZA Scholarship programme.
“From a biblical perspective, Hebrews 14 verse 16 says, I quote, “Do not forget to do good and to share what you have because God is pleased with these kinds of sacrifices.
“Similarly, Proverbs 19 verse 17 states that, I quote ‘Anyone who gives to the needy lends to God and will be repaid in full, for the good he does.”
“Pachivanhu chedu tinoti, rume rimwe harikombi churu. Ngesintu siti, izandla ziyagezana.
“These scriptural and cultural exhortations are reminders of the power of giving and working together.
“When we partner with a charitable cause, such as the ED-UNZA Scholarship Programme, we are making investments, not only for the profit of our personal entities, but more importantly, for the good of our communities and nation as a whole,” said President Mnangagwa.
He then commended captains of industry, philanthropists and corporate leaders, along with senior Government officials for coming together under the ED-UNZA banner.
At least US$644 000 was raised at the prizing giving and fundraising dinner.
President Mnangagwa said his ultimate goal was to usher a Zimbabwe that caters for all and sundry regardless of age, gender, social status or location.
“Your presence today speaks volumes about our shared vision. Additionally, your partnership to this initiative augments my quest to deliver people-centred, inclusive and development-oriented policies designed to create equal opportunities for all Zimbabweans, regardless of age, gender, social status or geographic location,” he said.
The dinner was attended by Cabinet Ministers, various partners from both the public and private sectors, and other senior Government officials.
