Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu, [email protected]
SAKUNDA Holdings’ chief executive officer, Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, made history by becoming the first black recipient of the esteemed Global Award of Excellence from the General Conference (GC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA).
The award was presented to him at Solusi University recently, on the final day of the church’s recent Regional Education Summit. The award acknowledges his transformative contributions to education through his Bridging the Gap Foundation (BGF).
The Global Award of Excellence, the highest honour conferred by the General Conference of the SDA Church, recognises individuals who have made a significant global impact in education within the church. It aims to inspire Adventists worldwide to support educational institutions and initiatives.
The General Conference noted Dr Tagwirei’s role in enhancing education across the world, particularly in Zimbabwe.
In his acceptance speech on March 8, Dr Tagwirei expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying his efforts are motivated by obedience, love and a deep sense of mission rather than the pursuit of accolades.
“When we dedicate ourselves to the Lord’s work, we do not do it for recognition. We do it out of obedience, love, and a deep sense of mission. Yet, standing here today, I feel profoundly humbled that the work we do has been noticed and appreciated at such a high level,” he said.
BGF has been instrumental in transforming at least 63 SDA-run schools across Zimbabwe. Through BGF, Dr Tagwirei provided crucial resources such as tractors and farming implements to Solusi University during its 2022 graduation ceremony and has also funded infrastructure development at the institution of higher learning, thereby enhancing both the learning environment and overall educational standards.
Solusi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Khumbulani Mpofu commended Dr Tagwirei’s gesture, noting the ongoing projects worth US$7 million meant to make the university self-sustaining.
“Dr Tagwirei’s efforts have been pivotal in making Solusi University a beacon of excellence. His investments have been both transformative and strategic, setting the institution on a path to long-term sustainability,” he said.
One of the notable projects funded by Dr Tagwirei at Solusi University is the installation of a comprehensive irrigation system at Mananda Farm. This project, which includes electrical pump plants, conveyance systems, fencing and telemetry control systems, is expected to boost agricultural productivity and generate sustainable income to support the university’s operations.
The SDA Church General Conference’s director of education, Dr Lisa Hardy, commended Dr Tagwirei’s historic achievement as the first black person to receive the prestigious award.
“Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s contributions have had an immeasurable impact on education, not just in Zimbabwe but globally. His efforts to uplift institutions and improve educational standards have truly set him apart,” she said.
Dr Tagwirei’s investment in Solusi University and his broader efforts through the BGF are seen as part of a deliberate strategy to ensure long-term sustainability and excellence in Adventist education.
“Solusi University is more than just an institution to me. It is a pillar of Adventist education and a beacon of excellence. Our investment in the farm is not just a financial contribution but a strategic effort to guarantee the future of the university,” said Dr Tagwirei.
Throughout his work, Dr Tagwirei has continued to stress the importance of educational institutions striving for sustainability and excellence. He said schools and universities thrive through strategic investments, visionary leadership and long-term planning.
Dr Tagwirei’s dedication to educational transformation through BGF continues to resonate globally with several institutions benefiting from his capacity-building programmes. His ongoing legacy of philanthropy serves as an inspiration to other philanthropists and business leaders.
In recognition of Dr Tagwirei’s contributions, the General Conference of the SDA Church has set a new standard, encouraging future generations to follow in his footsteps and actively contribute to the advancement of education worldwide.
