Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
HWANGE College of Education marked a significant milestone this Thursday as it held its third graduation ceremony, celebrating a cohort of students whose training journey began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Established with modest resources, the institution has rapidly grown into a key teacher-training centre in Matabeleland North, now enrolling more than 500 students. Its expansion reflects government’s continued investment in education and human capital development.
For many of the graduates, the occasion represents not only personal achievement but an opportunity to influence and uplift the communities they will serve.
“This is not only a special day for me, but my community also which I want to influence,” said a graduate.
“I consider myself a role model for many children, and I want to help them grow in education also,” noted another.
An affiliate of the University of Zimbabwe, the college has embraced the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education.
“We want to be an institution that speaks to the country’s industrialisation and we strive to help fulfil the national vision of coming up with practical solutions,” said college Principal, Mr Royal Ntini.
“We believe in being active contributors to innovation, industrialisation and needs that take our country forward,” highlighted University of Zimbabwe Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Artwell Mamvutho.
“Education, when invested in wisely, becomes the engine of industrialisation, innovation and inclusive development,” noted Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda.
For an institution like Hwange College of Education, instruction in languages such as Tonga, Nambya, and Ndebele has also been a critical cornerstone of learning.
