By Beatific Gumbwanda
Chiredzi Government High School is racing against time to raise US$3,300 needed to send six talented public speakers to the High School Debate Challenge in Nairobi, Kenya in December this year.
The school has so far gathered US$8,200 of the required US$11,500 total cost, thanks to generous community contributions.
A significant boost came from local sugarcane farmer Godknows Ganyani, who donated US$2,000, the largest single contribution to date. His support has revitalized the school’s efforts to secure adequate funding for the educational trip.
The debating team, consisting of Ngorima Manassah (Form 1), Runesu Praymore (Form 3), Zamayema Dorcas (Form 3), Dube Rutendo (Form 2), Dendera Tinashe (Form 5), and Machana Gayone Tinotenda (Form 5), earned the right to represent Zimbabwe after excelling in national competitions held at Amai Mugabe Group of Schools in Mazowe.
Former Ward 16 Councilor and war veteran Akim Temezani, who represented Ganyani during the donation ceremony, emphasized their commitment to the students’ success.
“We are here for you children because we have heard about the amazing things you’ve accomplished, including bringing home a trophy. We brought what we could, and we want to assure you that we will stand by you in whatever challenges you face,” he said.
In a further show of support, Ganyani also committed to covering the school head’s airfare, which was not included in the original budget.
School Development Committee Chairperson Felix Bhangu expressed gratitude for the donations while highlighting the urgency of securing the remaining funds.
“We appreciate this gesture, which will significantly help the children succeed in their trip. We have another batch of children who couldn’t go to Nigeria to represent our school due to lack of funding,” said Bhangu.
The school continues to appeal to community members and stakeholders to help bridge the funding gap and ensure these talented learners don’t miss this international educational opportunity.
