Chronicle Editor
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
INDUBA Primary School in Bulawayo proudly graduated 131 Early Childhood Development (ECD) learners yesterday in a momentous event that also included the commissioning of a new ECD block.
The speech and prize-giving event attracted parents, officials from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, heads of neighbouring schools, and community leaders.
In her keynote address, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, commended the school administration and the parents’ cooperation in fostering the school’s development.
“Today marks a significant milestone on this school’s calendar. I extend my sincere gratitude to our school administration for their visionary leadership, our dedicated teachers, who have worked tirelessly to nurture and guide our learners, and our supportive parents and guardians whose partnership has been invaluable,” said Minister Ncube.
She also acknowledged the contributions of the local authority and community partners in facilitating development projects, including the state-of-the-art ECD block which was also commissioned. Minister Ncube emphasised the vital role parents play in funding school projects and urged them to ensure timely payment of school fees and levies.
“As parents, we are the major sponsors of many projects at the school. Let us all play our role for the smooth running of the school,” she said.
She praised the school for its commitment to the newly introduced Education 5.0 curriculum, designed to nurture innovative future leaders.
“Our heritage-based curriculum which you are adopting focuses on holistic growth, fostering a love for learning, developing critical thinking, and cultivating emotional intelligence and social responsibility,” she explained.
The celebrations highlighted the academic achievements, artistic talents, and sporting prowess of Induba Primary learners across all levels. Minister Ncube congratulated the prize winners and encouraged those who did not receive awards to strive for improvement in the future. She also highlighted children’s basic rights.
“Children have a right to be loved. At times, we become so consumed with work that we neglect quality time with our children. A hug as they leave in the morning gives them strength for the day,” she noted.
She stressed the importance of listening to children, supporting their education, and monitoring their influences.
“Good quality education comes at a cost. Let us prepare for them by timeously paying their fees and purchasing necessary materials. Be their number one cheerleader,” she advised the parents.
The school head, Mr Lovemore Sibanda, expressed his honour to host a successful graduation ceremony filled with achievements.
“I stand to thank all who partnered with us to achieve these milestones and make our dreams a reality. I would also like to thank my fellow administrators, teachers, ancillary staff, and learners. Thank you all; it is definitely determination that breeds success,” Mr Sibanda said.
He appealed to stakeholders for further partnerships while applauding ZB Bank for offering the school a loan to build the ECD block. He expressed the school’s ongoing desire to acquire a school bus and improve its infrastructure. Mr Sibanda also highlighted the school’s progress, noting the improved Grade 7 pass rate, which increased from 67,8% in 2022 to 74,4% in 2023.
“We are glad for the hard work by teachers, and we look forward to further improvements. This can only be achieved through collaboration between parents and the school. I urge parents to pay fees on time to ensure smooth running of school programmes,” he said.
He also encouraged parental support for co-curricular activities and assistance with homework for their children.
“As Induba, we believe in the holistic development of the child and encourage parental involvement in behaviour moulding to instil the spirit of Ubuntu/Unhu. Parents are also teachers of behaviour, helping to raise patriotic citizens. Let’s work together to ensure no child is left behind. Children are our pride and future leaders, and moulding them begins today through good morals,” he said.
The ceremony featured vibrant performances by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Choir, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The ECD graduating class showcased their talents through poetry and drama, convincing attendees of their readiness for the graduation. Each graduate received a certificate of competence, and smiles were the dominant expression among all present, marking a joyous celebration of the children’s achievements.
Online Reporter