Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
THE academic sector has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Mkoba Teachers College Principal, Dr Rosina Mavunga, whose leadership and commitment to Heritage-based Education 5.0 earned her recognition as one of the country’s dedicated champions of teacher training.
Dr Mavunga died on Tuesday at a private hospital in Masvingo after falling ill while attending the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education’s 2027 Strategic Review Workshop at Urban Lifestyles Hotel.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the academic community, with colleagues describing her as an inspirational leader, mentor and goal-getter who was passionate about transforming teacher education and empowering future generations.
Mkoba Teachers College confirmed her death in a statement, describing her as a visionary and compassionate leader who devoted her life to advancing education.
“The family of Mkoba Teachers College is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Dr R Mavunga, our esteemed Principal,” said the college.
“A great leader, distinguished humanist, strategist, mentor, educator and friend.”
The college said Dr Mavunga’s unwavering commitment, professionalism and integrity had set a remarkable standard for staff and students, while her kindness, wisdom and passion for education had touched countless lives.
It said she was more than an administrator, having served as a caring mentor and a source of encouragement to those around her.
“Her kindness, wisdom and passion for education touched countless lives and transformed Mkoba Teachers College into a place of hope, excellence and opportunity,” said the college.
“As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her extraordinary life and the lasting impact she has made on our college, our community and the nation.”
Marymount Teachers’ College Principal Mr Martin Mukwazhu said Dr Mavunga’s death had come as a shock, describing her as a source of inspiration whose leadership was helping drive the implementation of Education 5.0 at Mkoba Teachers College.
“I am at a loss for words to describe what I am feeling right now. Her passing came as a shock to me and I am still trying to comprehend what happened,” he said.
“The academic sector has lost a source of inspiration, a leader and a goal-getter who was driving Education 5.0 at Mkoba Teachers College. May her soul rest in peace.”
Public Service Commission Midlands Provincial Coordinator Mr Andrew Chimanyiwa described Dr Mavunga as a formidable figure in the academic sector, saying her death was a major loss to the province and the country.
“This is indeed a great loss for us in the Midlands Province and the country at large,” he said.
Dr Mavunga was appointed principal of Mkoba Teachers College in October 2023 after serving as vice-principal of United College of Education in Bulawayo.
More to follow
