The Sunday News
Sindisiwe Sibanda, Sunday Life Reporter
A LOCAL non-governmental organisation, Sivezisizwe, has identified 10 pupils from Matabeleland provinces set to benefit from an educational programme which it recently implemented.
The organisation, which is based in Bulawayo, targeted children from different rural schools like Samahuru Adventist High School in Tsholotsho, Mkwabeni High in Filabusi, Somvubu Secondary in Bubi District, Matopo High as well as Wanezi High School. The aim of the programme was to expose the children to an environment that is suitable for their development and the pursuit of their dreams.
Programme co-ordinator Muziwandile Dube said the organisation is targeting mainly rural learners in a bid to expose them to an environment that will enable them to reach their full potential.
“The founder of the organisation Mr Vezi Bhebhe who is based in the United States of America took it upon himself to promote and expose rural school learners who are struggling to progress due to many challenges. We want to bring disadvantaged children to the world stage where they can realise their purpose and use their God-given talents to improve their lives and positively impact the world,” said Dube.
He said the organisation, for example, had managed to intervene in the lives of two pupils whose O-level results were better than those of their compatriots attending school within the city of Bulawayo.
“We have already provided scholarships and grants to two boys from Somvubu Secondary School in Matabeleland South who were faced with financial challenges and did not see the possibility of progressing to Advanced Level. This then means that the organisation will provide full support to these children and stand by them until they have achieved their dreams.
“The organisation is aiming to facilitate and provide opportunities to children which will then enable them to develop mentally, morally and socially in a healthy manner in dignified conditions. The learners also visited the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) to be presented with career options and options offered by the University.” said Dube.
Speaking on behalf of the 10 learners present at the workshop, Judith Dlamini from Mkwabeni High School said she was overwhelmed as they had been long wished for such opportunities.
“As an A-level student I feel like I am one of the luckiest people for having been picked to attend such a motivating seminar. This opportunity is an eye opener for me as it means I need to work extra hard to better myself,” said Dlamini.
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