Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala in Tsholotsho
THE Tsholotsho District Hospital’s School of Nursing came alive on Friday as 45 nursing students graduated during a colourful ceremony held at the Roman Catholic Church Hall.
The event was the school’s first graduation since 2015.
Although only a fraction of the expected 109 students graduated, the event carried a deep sense of pride and renewed hope for a school that has weathered years of setbacks, staffing shortages and stalled infrastructure development.
Guest of honour, Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Richard Moyo, said the Government was reviving the long-delayed project to complete the new nursing school.
He said plans are underway to construct modern classrooms and accommodation facilities that would restore the institution to full training capacity.
The nursing school, which plays a crucial role in supplying professional nurses to health centres across Tsholotsho and Matabeleland North, has faced repeated disruptions over the past decade. Construction of its new training facilities, launched several years ago, stalled due to funding constraints, forcing students to learn under cramped conditions and outdated infrastructure.
Minister Moyo praised the graduates for their discipline and dedication despite the difficult learning conditions.
“Nursing is more than a career. It is the heartbeat of our health system and your commitment and compassion are what keep our communities strong,” he said.
“I also want to acknowledge those who have chosen to remain and serve Zimbabwe. Your patriotism and love for your country are commendable.”
Senior tutor, Mufundisi Mhere said the day marked a victory born from endurance. He described how the school had operated with minimal resources, at times having only one tutor to run the entire programme for months.
“Students worked tirelessly despite limited infrastructure, long hours and very harsh conditions. We salute their resilience. Maintaining a pass rate of between 75 and 100 percent under such circumstances is no small achievement,” he said.
“At some point, we only had one tutor managing the entire school for three months.”
For many graduates, the ceremony was more than a formality — it was a dream reclaimed.
Top achiever Thando Mandigora, who walked away with an impressive 11 awards, could not hide her joy.
“The three-year training was hectic. There were times when it felt impossible. But today makes every struggle worth it. I’m grateful to my family and tutors who supported me throughout,” she said.
Another award winner, Lesley Ngwenya, who scooped two prizes and was named the best male student, described the emotional highs and lows that marked his journey.
“We faced challenges, especially during exam time, but we kept going. I appreciate my family, the school and our President for giving us this opportunity to learn here in Tsholotsho,” he said.
