Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
THE setting up of the first-ever tertiary education institution in Binga last year has opened up opportunities for the local young people as they pursue different educational qualifications.
October 2022 saw the first-ever tertiary education institution opening in Binga, allowing local students to access education in their home area.
A few months later, the students are getting on with their studies at Binga Industrial Training Centre and are eager to complete and make an impact in their community.
The centre is affiliated with Bulawayo Polytechnic College.
Chipo Mwemba scored eight subjects at Ordinary Level, but there were not too many options for her on the table and she found herself working as a maid.
The young mother, who had a child just after school, was quick to grab the opportunity to study at Binga Industrial Training Centre with both hands and enrolled on a course in plumbing.
Student Chipo Mwembe said, ‘‘I had eight subjects at 0’level and I didn’t have English. But I supplemented to get that subject. Along the way, I got a child and I started working as a maid in Bulawayo and Gwanda.
“When I heard that there was a tertiary institution in Binga, I came back home and started going to school.
“I paid my first fees with money from a job I did for Zimstat, but now my parents are paying for me. Bulawayo is very far from Binga and so we don’t have relatives who can afford us accommodation, transport and fees.’’
Like Chipo, Noah Mlalazi is among the students who appreciate the chance to get an education.
Mlalazi noted, ‘‘I am employed by the Binga Rural District Council as a security officer. I would like to thank the President for introducing the Binga polytechnic. When he first spoke about it in Siabuwa, I was excited about this development. I am undertaking an electrical engineering course. I look forward to the development of Binga upon completion of my course, this institution of learning has improved the lives of the students.’’
Petition Mpande works as a fuel attendant in Binga but is also attending school.
She is keen to contribute to the business sector in Binga as she pursues a career in accounting.
Mpande said, ‘‘It all started when I met a car written ‘pull the twig’ delivering coupons. They told me of a learning opportunity and said if I’m interested I can apply. Indeed I applied and was accepted. I want to be equipped with business acumen to manage a business.’’
For now, the tertiary institution is utilising buildings at the Binga rural district council while construction of a proper campus is underway.
The stories of the students may all be unique, but the common denominator is their zeal to use their education to improve Binga.
