Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter
EDUCATION that drives homegrown solutions remains the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s ongoing national development agenda, President Mnangagwa has said.
In his remarks at the ED-UNZA fundraising dinner in Harare yesterday, the President said it was in this respect that the scholarship now focused on providing critical support to key fields of study such as medicine, the sciences and technology-oriented disciplines.
“By investing in the appropriate education and skills development, we are laying a solid foundation for long-term modernisation, industrialisation and development for Zimbabwe, Zambia, Sadc and indeed, the African continent at large. My Government will, therefore, scale-up programmes to grow and consolidate a knowledge-driven economy,” he said.
In his remarks at the ED-UNZA fundraising dinner in Harare yesterday, the President said it was in this respect that the scholarship now focused on providing critical support to key fields of study such as medicine, the sciences and technology-oriented disciplines.
At the fundraiser, the ED-UNZA Trust received a significant donation in the form of a house.
Among items auctioned, businessman and philanthropist Kuda Tagwirei bought President Mnangagwa’s first car he got while studying in Zambia, for US$1,8 million.
He also acquired a copy of the President’s university degree for US$300 000.
Mabvuku Member of Parliament and Scottland Football Club owner Scott Sakupwanya bought the President’s portrait for US$200 000.
This came as a portrait of the President’s class fetched US$65 000.
Launched in 2019 by President Mnangagwa, the programme seeks to bridge the gap among students from all walks of life.
It has already changed many lives, building a fund with the goal of supporting many students each year.
With all their needs covered, students under the scholarship can focus on their studies without the burden of school fees.
The ED-UNZA Scholarship also pays tribute to President Mnangagwa’s days at the University of Zambia, where he studied law after enduring years in prison before Zimbabwe’s independence.
“To date, it is pleasing that the ED-UNZA scholarship has recorded life-changing results to the beneficiaries. Like a sprouting seedling, the fund requires continued nurturing, sustained support and the shared commitment from all stakeholders.
“I, therefore, appeal for stronger partnerships for the ED-UNZA scholarship from the private sector, development partners and philanthropic individuals, among others,” he said.
The ED-UNZA Scholarship also pays tribute to President Mnangagwa’s days at the University of Zambia, where he studied law after enduring years in prison before Zimbabwe’s independence.
While both Zimbabwe and Zambia remain richly endowed with God-given natural resources, the President said it was his belief that their untapped wealth also lay within the vast potential and intellectual prowess of the two countries’ youth population.
“Our two nations, Zimbabwe and Zambia, share more than borders.
“We share a common history, cultural ties and relations, as well as aspirations and a collective responsibility to secure a brighter future for the young people,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said it was the considerable number of underprivileged youths in society that had inspired the scholarship programme.
“Across our rural and urban communities, there are brilliant young men and women with the capacity to transform our societies.
“Many of these bright young minds however, remain locked out of higher education.
“This reality is what inspired the establishment of the ED-UNZA Scholarship Trust,” said the President.
“As an Alumni of the University of Zambia, I founded this initiative on an enduring principle that; talent is universal, but opportunity is not.”
He said it was his conviction that collectivism and shared leadership entailed the distribution of what is available to uplift others from abject poverty.
Thus, President Mnangagwa said it was important that Harare and Lusaka never tire in their quest to empower the youth and create opportunities for children within Zimbabwe and Zambia, so that they realise their full potential and achieve impactful careers.
“This must continue to be a collective effort.
“May I extend my profound gratitude to the Government and people of Zambia, who continue to host our students under this scholarship, along with others pursuing studies in our Sister Republic.
“I commend you all our partners and the Board of Trustees, as well as the administrative staff for the achievements we have realised to date.
“The ED-UNZA Scholarship programme has evolved and now incorporates academic exchange programmes,” he said.
The President commended those under the scholarship for excelling in their studies.
“It is pleasing that 10 students have graduated, with a further two to graduate by year end.
“I particularly congratulate those students for their perseverance, focus and hard work, which has seen them achieve their undergraduate degrees.
“Makorokoto, amhlophe, ‘Mwa chita bwino’. You have done exceedingly well,” he said.
He said support to the scholarship fund was a strategic investment in skills and human capital development, while imploring the private sector, among other stakeholders to partner the initiative.
“Your generous contributions, will, go a long way to ensure that deserving students receive the necessary financial assistance for their tuition, accommodation and other essential learning tools.
“In the spirit of Ubuntu, let us continue working together.
“No academically gifted or talented child should fail to succeed due to lack of resources.
“Hand in hand, as we dig deep into our pockets, we have the ability to unlock the full potential of our young people and shape a future defined by innovation, hard honest work, unity, excellence and shared progress, where no one and no place is left behind
“Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatirwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo,” said the President.
The President was accompanied by his fellow graduates of the University of Zambia Law School, Class of 1975, Justice Esau Chulu and Mr Jacob Chulu, whom he commended for their continued support.
Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Frederick Shava said the President had transformed the country’s entire educational landscape.
Chairman of the ED-UNZA Board of Trustees, Mr Herbert Nkala, commended President Mnangagwa for ensuring the initiative was a continuous success.
Also in attendance were Cabinet ministers, members of the business fraternity as well as other stakeholders.
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