Fungai Jachi
HARARE-THE Government of Zimbabwe has called on 47 students awarded scholarships to study in India to fully utilise the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills that will contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic development.
Speaking during a farewell engagement held in Harare with the scholarship recipients and their parents, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerai Moyo, emphasised the importance of investing in human capital as a pillar of national development.
“By investing in education, we are not just changing individual lives, but shaping the future of our nation. Together, we can build a society where talent and determination determine one’s success, not circumstances of birth. We look forward to you representing the country well as you study and that when you complete your studies you will be able to come back home and implement all that you would have learned,” he said.
The students, who are set to enroll at various Indian universities, will pursue degree programmes in fields such as medicine, law, and information and communication technology, among others.
Presiding Principal Officer of Career Guidance International, Dr Emmanuel Silas Mahachi, applauded the government for creating a supportive framework that enables the private sector to complement state efforts in promoting access to higher education.
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This is the fourth year since we started this programme and we are pleased that we are able to assist academically gifted children from underprivileged backgrounds to pursue their studies. Our aim is for students to align their learning with the National Development Strategy, so that we achieve innovation and technological advancement to meet our country’s developmental goals,” he said.
The beneficiaries of the scholarship expressed gratitude for the opportunity, promising to work hard and return home with skills that will positively impact their communities.
“This is really exciting for me because I have waited a long time for this chance to pursue my studies. I will utilise this opportunity to the fullest,” a student said.
“I am 17 years old and ready for the journey ahead. I promise to do my best so I can add value to my country,” a scholarship beneficiary said.
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It is a stepping stone for me, and I look forward to making a difference and excelling in my studies,” a young adult said.
“This is a great opportunity, especially for the girl child. If my daughter obtains a degree, it means she will be independent,” a parent said.
“We hope for the best and encourage them to work hard, so that whatever knowledge and skills they acquire abroad can be used to further develop our nation,” a guardian added.
The government has reiterated its commitment to supporting education as a vehicle for economic transformation and the attainment of Vision 2030.
