RUTENDO CHIRUME
MASVINGO- Masvingo City Council has taken steps to improve access to education for underprivileged pupils through a scholarship programme called Masvingo Educational Scholarship Programme (MESP).
MESP will be offering financial assistance to pupils enrolled at Council run schools.
The grants will be rolled out beginning this term to students who are academically gifted but from underprivileged families and orphans.
Speaking to The Midweek Watch MCC Town Clerk engineer Edward Mukaratirwa confirmed the new developments and said the council has already identified such students.
He also said the program will offer education grants for selected students up to university level.
“The existing structures at council school that is the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) committee will be used to identify the students who qualify for this program. Each school will submit a minimum of five students who will be approved by MCC Director of Housing and Social Services. Uniforms and related items such as their stationery will be paid for by the council up to grade 6.
“The program recognises children from grade four up to university level. For secondary education the scholarship will cater for a full package, that is related expenses and boarding fees.
“At university level the student is given an opportunity to choose institution of his/her choice in Zimbabwe and will get 100% package that covers full tuition and accommodation,” said Eng Mukaratirwa.
