By Godfrey Gusha
GWERU – In a heartwarming show of national service beyond the barracks the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commissioned a newly built Early Childhood Development (ECD) classroom block at Mpumelelo Primary School in Gweru’s Mkoba suburb this Wednesday transforming hope into reality for hundreds of learners and their families.
The much needed development addresses a long standing classroom shortage that had forced young learners to study in unsafe and overcrowded conditions. The new structure is already being hailed by the local community as a game changer in the drive to improve access to quality education.
“Our children can now attend classes in a safe and dignified environment. We used to fear for their safety in the old buildings” shared one relieved parent.
Another community member added “This classroom block is more than just bricks and mortar it’s a lifeline for better education. We’re grateful to the ZDF for their support.”
Presiding over the handover ceremony Zimbabwe National Army Chief of Staff Administration Major General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi said the project highlights the ZDF’s commitment to national development in line with its constitutional mandate.
“As provided for in the Constitution the ZDF’s role in military aid to civil ministries includes contributing to the provision of essential infrastructure. This classroom block is a reflection of our dedication to supporting the Ministry of Education’s mission to deliver quality learning to every Zimbabwean child” he said.
The project was commissioned as part of the annual ZDF Community Assistance Week which precedes the country’s Defence Forces Day commemorations set for August 12. Through this initiative the ZDF has completed and handed over several projects nationwide ranging from clinics to classroom blocks all aimed at uplifting disadvantaged communities.
This year’s Defence Forces Day is running under the theme “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030”
