The Sunday News
Loveness Mpofu, Sunday News Reporter
HERENTALS College on Friday officially handed over a scholarship to Takudzwa Gomera, the bright ex-Maranatha High pupil who was about to miss out on university after the school had withheld his results over $500 school fees arrears.
Gomera will study law at the University of Zimbabwe. Speaking during the handover ceremony at a local hotel, Herentals Group of Colleges director Ms Paulina Benza said the scholarship was very unique in the sense that it was not being awarded to the best overall performer in their colleges.
“I am very happy and humbled to award a scholarship to a well deserving student. This scholarship is the first of its kind at Herentals College because Takudzwa broke the record by scoring straight As, yet he didn’t go to school to study his Advanced level. It is our wish that next year we also convene here to award similar students. We are proud of you Takudzwa, keep on working hard,” she said.
Takudzwa scored 15 points, but had problems applying to enroll at the University of Zimbabwe after the institution demanded that he produces the O-level results. His former school, Maranatha High had withheld the results over non-payment of fees.
He had on instinct to proceed to A-level. As if that was not enough, he skipped Lower Sixth, and went straight to write examinations at Herentals College after doing a few lessons with a private tutor. He then managed to score 15 points.
After his story was published in the Sunday News, Eagle Life Assembly Church founder Prophet Blessing Chiza came to his rescue and cleared his school fees arrears, enabling the boy to obtain his O-level results. Takudzwa obtained four As and four Bs. An overwhelmed Takudzwa thanked the college and encouraged other students to pursue their studies seriously no matter their social status.
“I believe everyone here is more than able. You might be born poor, but rich in mind. Never be idle and stagnant.one nightmare should not stop you from dreaming big,” he said.
His mother, Ms Margaret Bagu said she was humbled by the support she has received to ensure that her child realises his dreams.
“I am very proud of my son because he was ready to compromise and understand our economic situation. Raised by a single mother, believe me wasn’t easy because I had to play the role of a mother and father. I hope that he will step up his game and live by the values I instilled in him. May God continue to bless Herentals College for their generosity,” she said.
An official with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, who was the guest of honour at the event, Mr Vincent Nobanda said Takudzwa’s story should inspire the whole country.
“I am very humbled to be here as we celebrate Takudzwa’s achievement. Congratulations to you young man because you are an inspiration to Herentals and the whole country. You are one of a few who can pass A- level given the circumstances which surrounded you. May God continue to bless you,” he said.-@lvydvy1
