Story by Yolanda Moyo
GOVERNMENT’s drive to expand equitable access to quality education is gaining traction, with the commissioning of a new classroom block at Monde Primary School in Victoria Falls set to improve learning conditions.
The development aligns with national policy priorities focused on expanding infrastructure in underserved areas, ensuring inclusive access to education.
Funded by a local tourism company, the new block brings relief to learners and parents who have long faced overcrowded classrooms.
“We are very happy as parents because our children were learning in overcrowded classrooms. This new block means they can now learn comfortably and focus better on their studies. This is a big development for us as a community. It shows that when companies work with communities, our children benefit directly.”
School authorities and traditional leaders welcomed the investment, describing it as a vital contribution to local education.
“As a community, we value this development. It speaks to unity and shared responsibility in educating our children. We commend the tourism company for remembering rural schools,” Monde School Headmistress, Mrs Alice Tembo said.
“This classroom block is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. We commend the tourism company for giving back to the community in which it operates, and this will go a long way in improving educational outcomes for our learners,” Headman Maratuza added.
A representative of Wild Horizons, Mrs Barbra Hughes, said the organisation remains committed to supporting education as a pillar of sustainable development.
“As a company, we are committed to supporting education because it is the foundation of sustainable development. We are currently working with 44 schools, constructing classroom blocks and improving infrastructure to create conducive learning environments. Our goal is to ensure that no child is left behind due to the lack of proper facilities.”
Government also commended the initiative, highlighting the role of partnerships in accelerating rural development. Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Development, Honourable Richard Moyo said the project contributes to national development goals.
“The projects we are witnessing today speak directly to these national priorities. They contribute meaningfully to the realisation of Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income society by 2030. Early Childhood Development is the bedrock upon which all future learning is built. By investing in ECD infrastructure, we are shaping the cognitive, social, and emotional development of our children at the most critical stage of their lives.”
“This initiative complements government efforts to improve educational infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Partnerships such as these are critical in achieving inclusive development and ensuring that every child has access to quality education. This partnership reflects the whole-of-society approach that is emphasised under NDS2, where government, private sector, development partners, and communities work hand in hand.”
Meanwhile, a ground-breaking ceremony for another classroom block was held at Sibindi High School, as efforts to expand education infrastructure continue.
