NEW: Mberengwa to benefit from varsity education-driven development solutions

Fungai Lupande

Mashonaland Central Bureau

In a concerted effort to foster sustainable development through education and skills training, Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) will spearhead the inaugural Annual District Education Conference (ADEC-1) in partnership with key Government departments and non-governmental organisations.

ADEC-1, which is slated to take place in Mberengwa this month, aims to identify and provide practical solutions to the district’s development challenges by harnessing the transformative power of education and skills training.

It will bring together educators, Government officials, researchers and community leaders to explore community-driven education models and inclusive learning strategies.

The conference will include short courses in Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), project management, regulations in Early Childhood Education and livelihood.

Additionally, the conference will host focused sessions on orchard preparation, beekeeping and an athletics coaching clinic for talent identification.

Mberengwa District Development Coordinator Mr Jonathan Hlabati hailed the initiative and partnership.

“The partnership reflects our commitment to improving education in Mberengwa,” Mr Hlabati said.

“It creates an opportunity for our youth and women to actively participate in transforming their lives through education and skills.”

The nitiative is an example of growing collaboration between the academia, Government and civil society.

BUSE will lead the technical and academic input while the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education and Local Government will provide policy guidance.

NGOs have committed to providing logistical support including strengthening the BUSE Friendship School.

ADEC co-chair and UNESCO chair at BUSE Dr Lazarus Dokora said the university is looking to support students who have completed their Ordinary Levels but have previously been excluded from higher education pathways.

“We are expanding access to post-secondary opportunities. Historically, universities focused on A-Level graduates but we now recognise the potential in those who complete O Levels and are ready to grow with support and training,” he said.

ADEC-1 is expected to become an annual event, providing a vital platform for inclusive educational planning and community empowerment in rural districts.