Nkosilathi Sibanda [email protected]
RESPECTED educationist and businessman Dr Clemence Kunzekweguta has urged pupils to take pride in their cultural heritage, strive for excellence and develop a self-reliant mindset to contribute towards the country’s development.
Dr Kunzekweguta made the call during Sacred Heart Primary School’s speech and prize-giving day held on Saturday, where he encouraged learners to recognise that their education should go beyond passing examinations and obtaining certificates.
Addressing pupils, teachers, parents and other stakeholders under the theme, “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring Excellence and Shaping the Future for Self-Reliance and National Pride,” he said young people had a responsibility to preserve their cultural identity while preparing themselves to become productive citizens.
He described Sacred Heart Primary School as more than an educational institution, saying it was a family built on faith, love and the values of caring and serving one another.
Dr Kunzekweguta urged learners not to be ashamed of their cultural backgrounds, mother languages, traditional foods and customs, saying these were important elements of their identity.
“Never be ashamed of your heritage. Never be ashamed of speaking your mother tongue at home. Never be ashamed of your village or your nutritious and healthy food. When you go to South Africa or England one day, people will respect you more when you are well grounded in your roots,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of embracing Zimbabwe’s diverse cultures, including Ndebele beadwork, Shona mbira music, Suthu dances and Kalanga songs, adding that the country’s cultural identity should be preserved for future generations.
Turning to academic and personal excellence, Dr Kunzekweguta said success was not measured by being number one in class but by giving one’s best in every responsibility.
He encouraged pupils to approach their schoolwork, talents and everyday activities with commitment, honesty and discipline.
He also applauded teachers for their dedication to shaping young minds, describing them as the unsung heroes and heroines of excellence.
Dr Kunzekweguta said self-reliance should be instilled in children from an early age, encouraging them to use their skills and creativity to solve problems and generate opportunities.
He cited simple activities such as planting vegetables at home, repairing broken furniture and starting small income-generating projects as practical ways through which learners could develop an entrepreneurial mindset.
Quoting President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s philosophy, “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (a country is built by its own people), he said Zimbabwe’s development depended on the active participation of its citizens.
“Think not what Zimbabwe can do for you but what you can do for Zimbabwe. Think not what somebody can do for you but what you can do for somebody. Think not what your dad or your mum can do for you but what you can do for them,” he said.
He added that the philosophy behind Education 5.0 should encourage learners to acquire practical skills that enable them to create solutions and contribute to economic development rather than simply pursue academic qualifications.
On national pride, Dr Kunzekweguta urged children to appreciate Zimbabwe’s history, heritage and natural attractions, including Great Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls.
He challenged learners to return home and undertake three simple activities: learn their family history from their grandparents, commit to doing one thing excellently every day and use their hands to plant, repair or create something.
In a gesture of continued support for education, Dr Kunzekweguta, on behalf of Kunze Enterprises, pledged to continue supporting Sacred Heart Primary School.
He said investing in schools that promoted cultural heritage, academic excellence and self-reliance was an investment in the country’s future.
Sacred Heart headmistress Sister Salome Chiramba thanked parents for their continued support. She, however, called for more assistance in rehabilitating the school’s aging infrastructure and other amenities.
Also present at the event was businessman DR James Ross Goddard of JRG Construction and Phezulu Farm.
