The Earthworks company has begun constructing Dubane Primary School within a Gwanda District resettlement community where children previously trekked 10 kilometers to reach educational facilities. The private firm's director, Charles Kunjani, explained that students faced dangerous journeys through dense vegetation to attend Colleen Bawn Primary or Tshindeni Primary schools. Community members had struggled for over two decades to gather sufficient resources for this educational project. The company plans to finish a classroom block before year-end, enabling Early Childhood Development enrollment by 2026. Earthworks will additionally create recreational facilities to engage youth and prevent substance abuse.
Gwanda District Schools Inspector Sidney Sibanda emphasized how this development supports government objectives to limit primary student walking distances to five kilometers. The official noted that extended travel compromised both student safety and academic performance. Construction quality will receive careful oversight to ensure proper infrastructure standards. Essential amenities such as teacher housing and water access will complement the educational facilities. Member of Parliament Fisani Moyo praised the public-private partnership model as exemplifying effective community collaboration.
Headman Dubane expressed relief about progress in this previously underserved region, where families spent up to 500 rand monthly on student transportation. The traditional leader highlighted how dangerous routes through mining areas had discouraged educational attendance. Extended school journeys had prompted some children to abandon studies and join illegal mining operations. Community leaders emphasized education's role in securing better futures for local youth. The project represents a tangible advancement toward national development goals.
Gwanda District Schools Inspector Sidney Sibanda emphasized how this development supports government objectives to limit primary student walking distances to five kilometers. The official noted that extended travel compromised both student safety and academic performance. Construction quality will receive careful oversight to ensure proper infrastructure standards. Essential amenities such as teacher housing and water access will complement the educational facilities. Member of Parliament Fisani Moyo praised the public-private partnership model as exemplifying effective community collaboration.
Headman Dubane expressed relief about progress in this previously underserved region, where families spent up to 500 rand monthly on student transportation. The traditional leader highlighted how dangerous routes through mining areas had discouraged educational attendance. Extended school journeys had prompted some children to abandon studies and join illegal mining operations. Community leaders emphasized education's role in securing better futures for local youth. The project represents a tangible advancement toward national development goals.
