Online Reporter
Michelle Musandinyoze, [email protected]
THE Seventh-day Adventist Church in Makokoba suburb has joined hands with partner organisations in Bulawayo to host an ‘Educational and Career Expo’ to impart critical life skills to youths and capacitate them to fight drug and substance abuse.
The event was held on Sunday at Efusini Business Centre and brought together representatives from institutions such as the United College Education (UCE), Bulawayo Polytechnic, Lupane State University, Trust Academy, the National University of Science and Technology (NUST),
TelOne, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Small and Medium Enterprises.
The expo targeted youths from Makokoba and other areas in Bulawayo, with the objective of educating them on the importance of education and guiding them on how to build their future.
In his remarks, Dr Sikhumbuzo Ndlovu from the SDA Church said the event was timely, given the challenges faced by youths in the country, particularly regarding drug and substance abuse.
“Currently, youths in our country are struggling with drug and substance abuse. This initiative is designed to motivate them to pursue education and make something of their lives,” he said.
“First of its kind and having begun here in Makokoba today, and also running for the next two weeks, we hope to impart transformative spiritual and life changing knowledge on our children with hopes of them making the best of their lives.”
Dr Ndlovu stressed that the role of churches extends beyond imparting spiritual knowledge, as they play a key role in influencing key decision making.
“The Seventh-day Adventist is not just a church, but also a proprietor of various schools, such as Solusi High School, which underscores our understanding of the importance of education,” he added.
Makokoba Residents Association, chairman, Mr Promise also highlighted the transformative power of education in rebuilding lives and creating opportunities for employment and a better life.
“All the institutions represented here are here to help you make informed decisions about your lives, they offer various courses that can help you achieve your goals,” he said.
Representatives from the attending institutions also commended the institutions for sharing their knowledge and programmes.
Mrs Tsungai Mangena said that Bulawayo Polytechnic is offering various courses in applied art and design, automotive engineering, applied sciences, information science, civil engineering, construction engineering, mechanical engineering, tourism, and hospitality, among others.
“We understand that information about choosing careers might not be easily accessible to most students, which is why we commend the SDA Church for bringing this initiative to Makokoba,” she said.
United College Education (UCE) representative, Ms Nomaqhawe Moyo also commended the SDA Church for the initiative, highlighting their programmes in primary and secondary teacher education, including courses in early childhood development, special educational needs, and inclusion.
She said UCE showcased their services, such as garment manufacturing, college clinic, counseling, and music studio facilities.
“We offer a range of courses that cater to different interests and career aspirations, and we are committed to helping students achieve their goals,” she said.
