Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
FIFTEEN students have been welcomed into the First Mutual Holdings Scholarship — which provides assistance to vulnerable children at primary, secondary and tertiary level since 2014 — and will be enrolled in local universities that include include University of Zimbabwe, Chinhoyi University of Technology, National University of Science and Technology, Midlands State University, and Bindura University of Science Education.
Among the beneficiaries are students who were supported from primary and secondary school.
The scholarship is run under the First Mutual Foundation, which is administered by Bantwana Zimbabwe.
The scholarship supports attendance, retention and transition from primary to secondary schools, as well as from secondary school to tertiary institutions.
The support is not limited to payment of school fees, levies, examination fees and provision of stationery and uniforms, but also includes tuition, accommodation, food and upkeep.
The foundation recently held a send-off ceremony for this year’s beneficiaries.
Addressing the students, First Mutual Holdings Limited Group chief executive officer Mr Douglas Hoto said the company believes that education is a catalyst for change.
“At First Mutual, we believe in the power of education as a catalyst for change, not only in your personal growth but also in the transformation of our communities and nation,” he said.
“This scholarship is more than just financial assistance; it is an investment in your future and an expectation that you will strive for excellence, integrity and leadership in all that you do. The First Mutual Foundation is proud to be part of your success story. We believe in your potential to become future leaders, innovators and change-makers. I urge you to make the most of this opportunity, excel in your studies and carry forward the spirit of excellence that this scholarship represents. We look forward to celebrating your achievements and seeing the positive impact you will make in the world. Dream big, work hard and stay focused — your future is bright.”
Several beneficiaries have excelled in their studies, with some achieving top honours in competitive programmes such as actuarial science, data science and computer engineering.
It is believed that the initiative has not only equipped students with academic qualifications but also fostered their personal development and professional readiness, as evidenced by successful placements in industry attachments and internships.
First Mutual Holdings Limited is a diversified financial services group that offers a wide range of insurance, investment and microfinance solutions.
Online Reporter