Online Reporter
Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
DEEP within the rugged landscape of Caledonia in Goromonzi District, Mashonaland East Province, lies a small, remote satellite school that was once a stark representation of challenges faced by communities in isolated areas.
For years, Caledonia Runyararo Peace Primary School struggled with inadequate infrastructure, forcing pupils to learn in tents, endure poor sanitation and navigate the absence of basic educational resources.
However, a remarkable transformation is underway, promising to change the lives of these children and their families.
In a significant move towards inclusive education, the school is now set to accommodate children with disabilities, ensuring that every child in the community has access to quality education.
This initiative represents not just a shift in educational policy but a commitment to fostering an environment where all children can thrive, regardless of their challenges. The transformation began when generous donors stepped in to provide critical infrastructure, enabling the school to emerge from the shadows and become a beacon of hope for the children of Goromonzi.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has played a pivotal role in this endeavour, demonstrating its commitment to supporting education through humanitarian initiatives that create safe and conducive learning environments for Zimbabwean children.
Last week , Primary and Secondary Education Minister Dr Torerayi Moyo visited the school and toured the ongoing construction at Caledonia Runyararo Peace Primary School, where the Church is building five new classroom blocks that will accommodate students from Early Childhood Development through to Grade 7.
He expressed his admiration for the Church’s dedication to enhancing the educational landscape in Zimbabwe.“The Church of Jesus Christ has undertaken massive projects in support of the president’s vision that by 2030, the livelihoods of the people of Zimbabwe will be transformed through education,”he said
Elder Denelson Silva, President of the Church, shared his insights on the collaboration, emphasising the importance of working alongside government institutions.
“Our participation in these educational projects aims to bless the lives of the people,” he remarked.
“By instilling hope and preparing them for future opportunities, we are fostering a sense of community and collaboration that is essential for sustainable development.”
The new classrooms, which are expected to be completed soon, will not only provide a physical space for learning but also create an environment where children can feel safe, supported, and inspired. When the reporter visited the area, she spoke with parents who could hardly contain their joy about the changes taking place.
Mrs Ruth Muringani, a local parent, expressed her excitement saying this has totally transformed their children’s lives.“For many years, our children have had to study in tents, sitting on the ground because there were no proper classrooms. It felt like a dream that would never come true. But now, to see them learning in a state-of-the-art classroom is something I could not have imagined. This new environment means that my children can enjoy going to school every day. They will be comfortable and focused, which will surely enhance their ability to learn,”she said.
Mr Joe Ndomene, who has a child in Grade 6 at the school, echoed her sentiments, highlighting the broader benefits for the community.“We are incredibly grateful for this development,” he said. “These classroom blocks will help alleviate the water challenges we face. Parents and children often compete for the limited water sources we have. Having a proper school in our area is a significant step forward. It’s not just about the education for our children; it’s about building a stronger community where both children with disabilities and those without can learn side by side. This model should be replicated in all areas across the country.”
Another parent, Ms Angella Mufiri, shared her hopes for the future.“I am optimistic that our children will see an improvement in their academic performance. With this conducive learning environment, I have no doubt that the pass rate will rise. We are grateful for the support we have received. It feels like a new beginning for our children, and with it, a brighter future for our community.”
The collaboration between the Government and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints not only addresses immediate educational needs but also aligns with a broader vision of transforming Zimbabwe’s educational landscape by 2030.The ongoing projects and partnerships signify a hopeful future for the children of Zimbabwe, ensuring that they have access to the resources and environments necessary for learning and growth.
As the new classrooms near completion, the excitement in the community is palpable.
Parents are not just optimistic about the educational benefits; they see this as a catalyst for change that will uplift their entire community.
The new school represents a commitment to inclusive education, a hope for the future, and a step towards overcoming the challenges that have long plagued this region. With the support of dedicated organisations and the resilience of the community, the dream of quality education for every child in Goromonzi is finally becoming a reality
