Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
GOVERNMENT and private sector investment in education infrastructure is continuing to narrow Zimbabwe’s classroom deficit, with a state-of-the-art primary school commissioned in Gutu District this Friday to improve access to quality learning in rural communities.
Sandon Junior Primary School, located in the Mupandawana area of Gutu, becomes the seventh institution under the Sandon Group of Schools and is expected to ease congestion at nearby schools while expanding access to modern education facilities.
The commissioning reflects growing collaboration between Government and private investors in strengthening the country’s education sector in line with Vision 2030.
Parents and community members welcomed the development, describing the new institution as a major milestone for learners in the district.
“We are happy because our children now have a beautiful school close to home. Previously, some learners had to travel long distances to access quality education, but this school has brought relief to many families in this community. The facilities here are of international standards, including interactive boards and well-equipped computer laboratories” a parent, Ms Lista Chirove said.
Another parent, Mr Trust Munodawafa, welcomed the development, saying it reflects efforts to improve educational infrastructure in all communities.
“This development shows that all communities are being prioritised when it comes to education infrastructure. Imagine having such a facility at a growth point. The classrooms are modern and the environment is conducive for learning. We appreciate Government and the private sector for investing in our children’s future,” he said.
Godknows Chengiya said the school will also contribute to local economic growth through employment creation.
“The coming of Sandon Junior Primary School will contribute to community development through employment opportunities and improved educational standards. Many locals were employed during construction, and now teachers and ancillary staff will also get jobs,” he noted.
The facility was officially commissioned by Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Angeline Gata, who applauded the private sector for partnering Government in expanding access to quality education infrastructure.
“These achievements by the Sandon Group of Schools demonstrate the importance of private sector investment in education. The institution has consistently produced outstanding results at both provincial and national levels, which is a testament to the commitment to excellence within the group. This is exactly the kind of investment government encourages because it not only promotes academic achievement, but also creates employment opportunities for Zimbabweans.”
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said such partnerships are helping bridge the education infrastructure gap, particularly in rural areas.
“The government alone cannot meet the growing demand for learning institutions, and we are encouraged to see private entities responding positively. Public-private partnerships are proving to be a game changer in improving education outcomes and accelerating progress towards inclusive and sustainable learning for all children.”
Executive Director of Sandon Group of Schools, Honorable Lovemore Matuke, said the development reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting government efforts in the education sector through investment in modern learning institutions.
“We want to thank Government for working with the private sector. As Sandon Academy, we are supporting the national vision of improving access to education. This is our seventh school, with three secondary schools and four primary schools, and we will continue expanding in support of Vision 2030.”
The event also saw Sandon Academy donating 10 Starlink kits to government schools in rural areas around Gutu.
In line with the national vision of leaving no one and no place behind, government and its partners continue to ensure improved access to education through advanced infrastructure development, investment in modern learning facilities and enhanced teaching and learning resources.
