Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu, has called on parents and community members in Mangwe District to unite behind the development of Marula Secondary School, saying community participation is critical to improving educational opportunities for rural learners.
Addressing learners, teachers, parents and local leaders during a visit to the school, Ndhlovu urged the community to take ownership of infrastructure projects aimed at improving learning conditions.
During the visit, he donated 80 desks and 80 chairs to the school, pledged 100 bags of cement towards the construction of a low-cost boarding facility and promised to provide a Starlink internet system once electricity is connected.
“This school belongs to the community. You recognised the challenges children faced travelling long distances and came together to establish this institution. Now we must continue working together to develop it further,” said Ndhlovu.
He encouraged parents to support the construction of the boarding facility by moulding bricks and contributing labour, saying community commitment would help attract further support from government and development partners.
“The boarding facility will benefit learners who travel long distances every day. If we work together as a community, we can create a better learning environment for our children,” he said.
Ndhlovu also challenged learners to take their studies seriously and make full use of the opportunities available to them through government investments in education.
“The President can provide infrastructure and opportunities, but no one can read on your behalf. Success will depend on your dedication and commitment to your studies. We want well-rounded students who take education seriously,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of science and technology, Ndhlovu said Zimbabwe’s future depends on a generation equipped with knowledge and innovation-driven skills. He noted that approximately 40 science laboratories have been constructed across Matabeleland South Province and are expected to be fully equipped by 2026.
Drawing from experiences during a recent visit to China, he spoke about witnessing driverless vehicles and other technological innovations powered by science and engineering.
“Those are the fruits of science education. The future belongs to those who embrace innovation, technology and knowledge,” he said.
During an interactive session, learners shared their career aspirations, with some expressing ambitions to become doctors, engineers, commercial farmers and technology specialists.
Headmaster Mbusi Moyo said the support would go a long way in addressing challenges affecting the school and improving learning conditions for students.
Parents also welcomed the commitments made during the visit, saying the proposed boarding facility and internet connectivity would significantly improve educational opportunities for learners in the area.
The visit highlighted the growing importance of community participation in school development, with stakeholders agreeing that collective effort remains key to improving educational outcomes in rural communities.
