Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
EDUCATIONIST and businessman Dr Cleopas Kundiona has urged UMAA graduates to use the skills they have acquired to develop themselves and make a positive contribution to the development of the nation.
Dr Kundiona, who is the founder, president and Principal of UMAA, made the call while officiating during the 39th graduation ceremony for the institute in Marondera today.
About 75 students, including international students from Mozambique and Rwanda, graduated with diplomas in the faculties of Hospitality Management, Motor Mechanics and Commercial Agriculture.
Dr Kundiona implored all graduates to utilise the knowledge and skills acquired to boost their personal development and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
The graduation ceremony was held under the theme, “Managing a change with a look home policy and beautification of UMAA, until victory is certain”.
“We are quite confident that we have equipped you with the best and greatest weapon in knowledge and skills to conquer ignorance and develop as future leaders,” he said.
“Education is fundamental to personal and national development. It provides life opportunities and also underpins the development of a highly skilled and innovative workforce, which is crucial for the social, cultural and economic growth of our sovereign motherland, Zimbabwe.
“UMAA is making sure that quality education is given to the people of Zimbabwe, and of course, regionally, as we have foreigners graduating here today.
“Those who graduated from the faculty of agriculture, your first option is to become successful farmers and entrepreneurs. You have to work to bring Zimbabwe back, as the breadbasket of Africa.”
Dr Kundiona said the institute is planning to establish a Faculty of Education, Teaching, and Training, which is expected to commence early next year.
“This new faculty will further enhance UMAA’s commitment to providing quality education and training.”
One of the graduates, Tanyaradzwa Parangira, could not hide his joy after attaining a Diploma in Motor Mechanics.
“I am so excited today. It is now time to go back to my community and implement the skills that I acquired. I plan to be an employer, and I will be one soon,” he said.
