Grannies now in Grade 2

Conrad Mupesa Correspondent
AT Least 20 elderly people from Mhangura who enrolled for Grade 1 classes last year under Government’s non-formal education programme started Grade 2 lessons this week.

The pupils including a 58-year-old woman have defied social stigma to continue with their studies, saying the sky was the limit.

One of the pupils, Esnath Chisumbu, said she will not be moved by what people say about her ambitions and aspirations.

“I always wanted to be able to read and write and after completing the first stage which I passed with flying colours, I told myself that anything is possible and that is the reason why I have joined my classmates for Grade 2 level,” Mrs Chisumbu said.

Another granny, 54-year-old Pikisai Ruzvidzo, said she will pursue her studies until she becomes a nurse.

“I no longer want to study for the sake of being able to read and write, but rather to become an intellectual and a professional. I intend to become a nurse if God permits,” she said.

Letty Mhora (54) urged illiterate males in her society to take up the Government initiative so that they become independent.

“Most men in our society are egocentric, despite knowing that they can’t read and write they still shun the programme because they are shy.

“Men should take up the initiative so that they do not rely on others for anything concerning reading and writing,” she said.

The elderly pupils have managed to motivate others as Mhangura Mine Primary School is still receiving requests and registering pupils wanting to enrol as first timers.

“The school is currently receiving people wanting to enrol for the non-formal education initiative. We have received quite a significant number of people enquiring about the procedure to be included.

“We are expecting more pupils this year,” said an official at the school.

The elderly people in Mhangura made headlines last year after enrolling as non-formal learners.

Government introduced the National Non-Formal Education Policy in 2015, to promote provision of high quality education, relevant and inclusive non-formal education.

This was aimed at increasing access to education to people who never had access or dropped out along the way.

It is viewed by Government as a tool to develop human capital by facilitating access to education for all citizens.