MARTIN MAWAYA
SHURUGWI-Anglo American-UNKI Mines has invested US$2 million in the education in Shurugwi District under a three-year project dubbed “Sustainable Transformation for Education Program-Unki Platinum (STEP-UP)”.
The giant platinum mining company, working in partnership with Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) and World Vision, rehabilitated nine classrooms at four primary schools, with four new classrooms constructed at Selukwe Primary, Totonga Primary, Gundura Primary and Chironde Secondary, all are at 95% completion.
Additionally, 6 327 learners have benefited from the solar electrification of 15 schools in very remote areas.
Under the STEP-UP project, Solar electrification also regarded as the game changer in reducing “the reliance on fossil fuels” as well as making it a “sustainable solution that benefits both the environment and the economy,” reads the report.
Speaking during the Secretary’s Merit Award ceremony at Impali Primary school recently, Unki Mines human resources manager, Antony Chadhliwa said the STEP-UP project has provided 1 000 learner’s desk and chairs to create a comfortable learning environment for students, including the donation of 30 000 books to support reading and increase literacy levels among the 21 schools in the mining district.
He said the project is aimed at making a positive impact on the lives of students and the community as well as improving access to education.
Chadhliwa added that thousands of learners benefited through solarized power water systems.
“Over 1 905 learners now have access to water through solar powered water systems in 4 schools ( Selukwe Chrome/ Ironsides, Chironde Primary, Juchuta Secondary and Zhaugwe Primary. Two are currently being worked on (Totonga and Nyagari Primary schools) while four schools had dry holes,” he said.
Furthermore, the project saw teachers undergoing professional development training to enhance learning outcomes.
“To improve learning outcomes, 21 leaders have continuously been trained on instructional leadership, 63 teachers capacitated through different teacher professional development modules including Catch Up strategies. Professional development allows teachers to expand their skills and knowledge and grow as educators.
“Professional development keeps teachers and administrators up to date on new curriculum resources, new findings on how children learn, and new technological tools for the classroom. This initiative has seen the revitalization of standardized exams among the 21 schools starting this mid-year,” added Chadhliwa.
In addition, Chadhliwa said 448 learners have been trained in vocational skills, tackling different pathways ranging from solar electrification, mechanics, hotel and catering, cosmetology, textile and clothing, plumbing, metal fabrication, building and carpentry.
He said, “Vocational education and training provides learners with essential skills enhancing their employability, supporting their personal development and encouraging active citizenship”.
