Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
STUDENTS from tertiary institutions have embraced the traditional cook-out competition with students under Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (Stem) faculties taking part in the competitions.
Ms Nyasha Munyanyi, a Mining Engineering student at Gwanda State University who was third in the cook-out competition said the event has provided a platform for her to gain exposure and not be limited to her field.
The cook-out programme is a concept introduced by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa in 2019. Since then, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has been tasked to co-ordinate the implementation of the programme together with provinces and other ministries.
The 2024 traditional cook-out competitions have been extended to incorporate students from tertiary institutions and professional chefs.
In Matabeleland South province, the cook-out competition for tertiary students and professional chefs was held at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic College.
“When I heard that there was a cooking competition for students, I decided to take part even though it’s not related to my field of study as I wanted to gain exposure. Cooking is something I love and I believe I’m good at it and I would like to develop that skill. I have learnt a lot and some dishes were new to me. Through engaging with the other chefs, I have learnt new recipes and various traditional foods and their health benefits.
“I’m overjoyed that I was third in a competition, which had professional chefs and students doing tourism and culinary programmes. I will continue to cultivate my cooking skills,” she said.
Ms Tariro Mavetera, a Meteorological Engineering student at the Gwanda State University, who participated in the competition, said she is delighted that the cook-out competition now incorporates learners. She said this would help develop the learners in line with Education 5.0.
“Our new curriculum seeks to ensure we are equipped with knowledge and skills so that we are innovative and productive. This competition is equipping us with cooking skills, which will come in handy in the future. It is also playing a crucial role in instilling cultural and traditional values among us as youths. Our traditional foods are being shunned by some youths, but through such programmes they can be revived,” she said.
Mr Surprise Ncube, a Tourism and Hospitality Management student at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic who was first in the competition, said participating in the event would help enrich his skills. He said it took a lot of research and thorough preparation in order to cook the dishes he served. Mr Ncube said he would have to go an extra mile in order to represent his province well.
“I’m glad that as students we have been given the opportunity to be a part of the cook-out competition. I would like to extend my gratitude to the First Lady Dr Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa for coming up with this initiative, which can empower us as youngsters. As a Tourism and Hospitality Management student, this is a platform, which can help me access opportunities at national and regional level where I can showcase my talent.
“Participating in the national competitions will give me the necessary exposure that will help to enrich my skills. I hope to learn more about traditional food and new recipes. I aim to thoroughly prepare for the national competitions so that I make it to first place,” he said.
The national competition is set to be held from May 24 to 25 in Manicaland Province. The event will see participants compete in three categories; students in tourism or culinary programmes, professional chefs and community.
The event will be held ahead of the United Nations Gastronomy Conference set for Victoria Falls in July. — @DubeMatutu.
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