Story by Tamuka Charakupa
The Chakari community in Mashonaland West province has benefited from the Second Republic’s inclusive development after two classroom blocks and a borehole were commissioned at Eastlea Primary School Thursday.
The addition of two classroom blocks, an ablution facility and a borehole at Eastlea Primary School in the Chakari area of Mashonaland West province has been applauded by the local community as key in enhancing the learning environment.
Before the intervention, learners were forced to attend lessons in makeshift buildings which exposed them to environmental hazards.
“Our children were learning in old structures before this intervention. This means our children can now get quality education, helping bridge the learning gap between urban and rural learners,” a community member said.
Another said, “We want to thank government for allowing private partnerships to respond to our priority needs. The ablution facility means a reduction in diseases.”
Implementing partner, Craft Properties Holdings founder, Professor Kudakwashe Taruberekera said Vision 2030 is attainable through public-private partnerships.
“Our President Cde Emmerson Mnangagwa is always saying ‘Nyika Inovakwa neVene Vayo’ and we have taken it upon ourselves to play our part in building our own country. We are coming on board to complement what the government is already implementing in stirring development.”
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerayi Moyo highlighted the impact of public-private partnerships in national development.
“This ceremony exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts, such as this public-private partnership, in driving progress towards our national development objectives and the overarching vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe by 2030. Moreover, it is imperative to echo the sentiments of our President, Dr E.D Mnangagwa who has emphasised the significance of working hand in hand with private partners to enhance key sectors such as education.
“His endorsement of such collaborations underscores the government’s recognition of the invaluable contributions that private entities bring to the table in advancing national development agendas. By fostering strong partnerships between the public and private sectors, we not only amplify the impact of our initiatives but also harness the diverse expertise and resources necessary to propel our education system towards excellence and alignment with the broader developmental goals of the nation,” he said.
Meanwhile, people with disabilities received wheelchairs at the event.