Story by Tamuka Charakupa
CONSTRUCTION of the Karoi College of Education is set to begin following a groundbreaking ceremony held in Karoi this Thursday, marking a major step towards expanding access to teacher training in Mashonaland West Province.
The institution, which will become the province’s first teachers’ college, is expected to improve access to higher education while creating employment and business opportunities for local communities.
Karoi Town Council Mayor, Councillor Kudakwashe Chigomo described the project as a significant development milestone for the town.
“The coming in of the Karoi College of Education is a significant milestone for our town. It demonstrates the power of partnerships between the government, the church and local authorities in driving development. Beyond improving access to education, the project will create employment opportunities, increase business activity and broaden the town’s revenue base as Karoi continues to grow into a key education hub,” he said.
Residents welcomed the development, saying it would bring educational opportunities closer to communities in Hurungwe District.
“Hurungwe is one of the largest districts in Zimbabwe, and this institution is long overdue. Many of our young people have been forced to seek opportunities elsewhere, but this project will help bridge the unemployment gap while bringing education services closer to our communities. It will also attract investment and create business opportunities that directly benefit local residents,” said resident Tichaona Mungwariri.
Youth leaders also hailed the project for its potential to empower young people through education and skills development.
“As youths, we welcome this investment because it creates opportunities for young people through education, skills development and employment. When such institutions are established in our communities, they help address challenges such as drug and substance abuse by giving young people hope and direction. We are grateful to President Mnangagwa for championing inclusive development that leaves no one and no place behind,” said ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Youth Chairperson, Cde Tapiwa Masenda.
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Chinhoyi, Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa said preparations for construction were underway, with the project expected to be completed next year.
“As the church, we remain committed to complementing Government efforts in national development through education. This institution will help shape future generations, nurture innovation and equip students with the skills required to contribute meaningfully to national development. We are confident that with the support of our partners, construction will be completed by next year,” he said.
Government officials commended the partnership behind the project, describing it as a model for inclusive development.
“This project is a clear demonstration of the whole-of-society and whole-of-community approach to development being championed by the government. We commend the Roman Catholic Church and all stakeholders involved for investing in the future of our young people and contributing towards the attainment of national development goals,” said Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo.
“The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development welcomes this initiative, which will strengthen teacher education and increase training capacity in the country. The establishment of the institution aligns with the government’s vision of expanding access to quality higher and tertiary education while producing skilled human capital for national development,” said Director in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Mr Darlington Damba.
Once completed, the Karoi College of Education will become Zimbabwe’s twentieth teacher training institution, strengthening the country’s teacher education capacity and supporting the objectives of the National Development Strategy 2.
