Story by Memory Chamisa
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to capacitating institutions of higher learning to enable them to produce skilled professionals capable of driving Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.
The commitment was reiterated at the 29th Christian College of Southern Africa (CCOSA) Graduation Ceremony held at Heritage Village in Harare, where more than 70 students graduated with diplomas in media, diplomacy, business administration, information technology and other disciplines.
Graduates expressed confidence that the knowledge and practical skills acquired at the institution would enable them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
One of the graduates said, “I graduated with a Diploma in Media and I look forward to working for one of the reputable media organisations, especially in radio, which I am passionate about.”
Another graduate said, “I’m happy today that the hard work I put in has paid off. Some of my colleagues deferred, but I persevered and I’ve graduated.”
A third graduate added, “I’m grateful to my parents who ensured that I pursued a diploma I was passionate about, and I look forward to working in the industry alongside renowned journalists.”
Representing the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Zhemu Soda, Deputy Minister Dr Omphile Marupi said CCOSA has played a significant role in complementing Government efforts through the training of professionals across various disciplines.
He highlighted the institution’s contribution to the media industry, noting that many of its graduates now occupy influential positions in Government and leading media organisations.
“CCOSA’s alumni hold top positions in Government, in media houses, ZBC, Zimpapers and even as ambassadors. At least 60 percent of all media practitioners have passed through CCOSA. For instance, the current CCOSA Alumni Representative, Mr Albert Chekeayi, is currently a Director at the national broadcaster, ZBC. Mr Perfect Hlongwane, who is the Secretary General of the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists, is also one of our former students. We also have Mr Mkwate, who is leading Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN), while Mr Sugar Chagonda, the current Chief Executive Officer of ZBC, also began his journalism journey at CCOSA. Radio presenters and producers at various State and community radio stations are dominated by CCOSA graduates. Given this background, what more can we say about the national contribution of CCOSA in training leaders in journalism, public relations and corporate communication?”
The graduation ceremony coincided with the institution’s 50th anniversary, marking five decades of producing professionals who continue to serve Zimbabwe and beyond.
CCOSA former Registrar Mr Amos Utawunashe said the Golden Jubilee was a celebration of the institution’s rich legacy and reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates equipped with knowledge, integrity and practical skills.
“This Golden Jubilee is a celebration of our rich heritage, academic excellence and the many graduates who continue to make meaningful contributions to Zimbabwe and beyond. We remain committed to equipping future generations with knowledge, integrity and practical skills to meet the demands of a fast-changing world. We want our former students to continue supporting their institution so that the legacy endures for future generations,” he said.
The ceremony celebrated both the achievements of the graduating class and CCOSA’s enduring contribution to skills development over the past five decades.
