Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE commissioning of a new classroom block and piped water scheme at Malunku Primary School has improved learning conditions for hundreds of pupils in Lupane District, Matabeleland North Province.
The projects, delivered through a partnership involving Government, Kusile Rural District Council, the local community and development partners, are part of the Second Republic’s drive to improve access to quality education.
For years, learners at the school brought drinking water from home, relied on unsafe water sources and, at times, attended lessons in the open because of inadequate classroom space.
The partnership has now delivered a fully furnished classroom block and a piped water scheme worth more than US$70 000 in Chief Mabhikwa’s area.
Learners said the new facilities have transformed their school environment.
“The new classroom block has given us a comfortable place to learn. We will no longer be distracted by overcrowding or worry about rain and strong winds interrupting our lessons. This will help us concentrate better and improve our performance,” one pupil said.
Another learner added:
“Having clean piped water at our school is a big relief. We can now wash our hands regularly, keep our classrooms clean and stay healthy.”
A third pupil said:
“The classrooms will protect us from the hot sun, cold weather and heavy rains, while the piped water scheme will improve hygiene, especially for us as girls.”
Another learner noted:
“These projects have transformed our school. We now have a better learning environment, access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation.”
School Development Committee Chairperson Mr Micah Sibanda said the projects would improve both education standards and staff retention.
“The new classroom block and piped water scheme are major milestones for our school. They have created a conducive learning environment, improved health and sanitation, and enhanced the school’s appeal. They will also help us attract and retain qualified teachers.”
Minister of State for Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Richard Moyo, said the investment supports Government’s national development agenda.
“These projects contribute directly to the implementation of National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030. We cannot realise an upper-middle-income economy without investing in quality education, safe learning environments and healthy communities. This is how we fulfil our commitment to leave no one and no place behind.”
Established in 1950, Malunku Primary School has served the local community for more than seven decades and now enrols about 630 learners.
