Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
INFRASTRUCTURE development continues to enhance access to quality education, as demonstrated by the commissioning of a Textile Technology Design (TTD) block at Hokodzi Secondary School in Murewa.
The development aligns with the Second Republic’s drive to improve rural education infrastructure while advancing the Heritage-Based Education Curriculum. The newly completed facility is expected to expand career pathways for learners through practical skills training.
Learners at the school welcomed the development, highlighting its potential to provide alternative career opportunities.
“The practical lesson will help me to start my own sawing projects after school. Even if one fails academic subjects, this is a fallback position,” a pupil said.
“I am looking forward to starting my own business after completing my secondary education,” a learner said.
“The construction of the TDT block will enable us to develop practical skills that will help us in future,” another pupil said.
Education authorities and local leadership say the facility will play a key role in strengthening skills development and improving academic outcomes.
“This is an important investment where students learn practical lessons. If a student fails academically, he or she can focus on these practical subjects. This building was started in 1998, and we are happy that the building has been completed. This is in line with the mantra of living no one and no place behind. This textile technology and design will definitely benefit our community through skills development,” Director Finance, Administration, Human Resources and Discipline in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Mr John Chikohomero said.
Murewa Rural District Council Chairperson, Councillor Amos Gutu, said the project will empower learners with life skills while improving pass rates.
“This is an initiative that will empower students to have life skills. There were poor results here, and the construction of these blocks will ensure the pass rates will improve going forward. The block was started by the community before council, and local legislator Honourable Jere intervened and went on to give us sawing machines,” he said.
Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, said the project reflects Government’s commitment to practical education.
“We are happy as the Second Republic as we commission textile technology design block, which is fully furnished. This project was started in 1998, and the project has been completed. We want to thank honourable Farai Jere for providing sawing machines for the school. Learners are now being empowered with practical skills in line with Education 5.0 thrust. Students should do practical subjects such as agriculture and building, among others. I am told that I will be back at this school to commission a food and nutrition block, which is under construction,” he said.
Since 2018, Murewa District and Mashonaland East Province have recorded notable progress in infrastructure development, in line with the Second Republic’s thrust of leaving no one and no place behind.
