Online Reporter
Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau
THE Government has commissioned a new classroom block, a sports arena and a pigsty at Kwekwe Primary School in the Midlands Province.
The US$89 000 new classroom block and a modern multi-purpose sports arena, delivered through a partnership between the school and surrounding communities, is expected to enable learners learn in a conducive environment while also participating in sports activities.
For years, residents in Newtown, Msasa suburbs had been struggling with limited classroom space, forcing the school to implement hot sitting
The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube commissioned the projects during a recent ceremony held at the school.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Ncube applauded Kwekwe Primary School parents and the school development committee for mobilising their own resources towards the construction of the facilities.
“This positive development is commendable as it is guided by the Second Republic’s philosophy of
“Nyika inovakwa, igotongwa, igonamatirwa nevene vayo,” he said
“This event marks a significant milestone achievement in advancing the Second Republic’s desire and unwavering commitment towards human capital development, innovation and infrastructure development outlined in the NDS2 and United Nations SDG 4, in pursuit of quality education through improved teaching and learning environment as we gravitate towards attainment of a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030.”
Minister Ncube commended President Mnangagwa, for successfully implementing the Transitional Stabilisation Programme and NDS2.
He further noted that the local currency has stabilised against other currencies and economic performance indicates solid performance bolstered by robust infrastructure development projects and private-sector-led investment in mining, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and construction that anchor the Gross Domestic Products.
“In this regard, President Mnangagwa recently launched NDS2 to enhance production and productivity across all sectors of the economy as we march towards attainment of a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030,” said Minister Ncube.
The minister said the bold and strategic policy shift towards Heritage-Based Education 5.0, which integrates the country’s cultural heritage with modern infrastructure and technologies, harnesses collaborations with the private sector, communities and development partners to ensure a conducive teaching and learning environment.
He urged parents to uphold their obligation to pay fees to enable the maintenance and expansion of the school, including the new administration block.
“Furthermore, I implore learners to focus on their studies and desist from drug and substance abuse, early marriages, bullying and dropping out of school to pursue short-term benefits,” said Minister Ncube.
Parents and residents welcomed the development, saying it will enhance learning for pupils.
Mr Abel Ngoni said the parents, the school and partners were pillars in developing the school and the community at large.
“This move complements the Government’s Heritage-based Education model because it supports the will and move for learners to be hands-on. If a child here fails in the class, he or she has a chance in the sports field, which is a good move,” he said.
“Our school has done a very good job because it will reduce levels of mischief from children.”
Ms Anna Moyo said the new facilities are expected to reduce congestion, extend learning time and provide expanded opportunities in both academics and sport.
Bongani Ndlovu