Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau Chief
DUE to financial challenges, the education journey had come to an abrupt end for siblings Unathi and Uyapo Sibanda. Unathi completed her Ordinary Level last year while her brother Uyapo completed his Grade Seven during the same year.
Sadly, their dreams hung in the balance as their grandmother could not continue paying their school fees and they had to stay at home.
Unathi, who is now a Form 5 pupil at Gwanda High School, said it had always been her desire to take her academic journey to greater heights.
The siblings received a lifeline from a well-wisher who made it possible for them to go back to school last term.
Unathi who broke into tears as she narrated her ordeal said the months she spent out of school were the worst in her life. She said she thought she would not continue with her studies and was contemplating looking for a job in order to assist her grandmother.
“My academic journey has been filled with turmoil due to financial challenges. I passed my Grade Seven very well with nine units and when I went to secondary school, the situation became tough as my grandmother was struggling to pay our school fees. This made it very difficult for me to cope at school and I didn’t perform as well as I wanted. At some point, I thought I wouldn’t sit for my examinations as I registered late.
“After I received my O-level results early this year, I couldn’t proceed to Lower Six because my grandmother couldn’t pay our fees. My hopes for a better future had been crushed. It was painful to wake up every morning and fail to go to school. I knew very well that if I was given the opportunity, I could do exceedingly well,” she said.
Unathi who is a member of the Gwanda Junior Council said she felt overjoyed when she was able to resume her studies during the second term in July. She said joining her classmates late was not an issue for her as all she wanted was an opportunity to learn. Unathi said she was determined to use this chance to perform well.
“My dream is to become a lawyer and I know that I have to study hard in order for this dream to become a reality. I feel like I have been given a lifeline and I intend to do my best in order to make this count. My main focus is on my studies and doing well,” she said.
Her brother Uyapo said he was grateful to have been given another shot at education. It is his desire to do well in school in order to break the cycle of poverty.
Their grandmother, Ms Sibonile Muzwina, said she approached Gwanda Mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo seeking financial assistance for her grandchildren’s education. She said she had already visited various offices seeking assistance with no luck.
Ald Moyo engaged South Africa-based businessman, Mr Cabangani Mangena who operates Mzansi Transport. Mr Mangena offered financial support to Unathi and Uyapo as part of his corporate social responsibility. The siblings are among several other learners in Gwanda who are being supported by Mr Mangena.
Ms Muzwina who is a vendor said a huge burden had been lifted off her shoulders as a result of this kind gesture.
“I used to support my grandchildren’s education through selling my wares but my daughter fell ill last year and I incurred huge bills which I’m still struggling to clear.
“It pained me to see my grandchildren at home while their peers were at school. I had vowed to myself that no matter what happens, I have to put them through school.
“I thank the mayor for lending an ear and Mr Mangena for offering a helping hand. I’m relieved that my grandchildren are now in school and all their education needs are being catered for,” she said.
Ald Moyo said it is important for the community of Gwanda to stand up and cater for those in need. He said it is his desire to see every child of school going age learning.
Ald Moyo said if community members could play their part and not leave the duty of caring for the under-privileged to Government, a lot of people would be empowered.
Mr Mangena who hails from Gwanda said he saw it prudent to give back to the community.
The businessman who has also rolled out various development projects said the contribution of every member of society in assisting the under privileged and developing the community was important no matter how small.
“If we could all play a part in developing our communities and assisting the needy then we can go a long way. The President has said ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo meaning that for Gwanda to develop and for it’s people to be empowered, it depends on us the people of Gwanda,” he said. – @DubeMatutu
Londile Moyo
Online Reporter