mbulelo smpofu
Blessed Moyo, Sunday News Reporter
HISTORIC breakthroughs often emerge from humble beginnings, and Norwood, Bulilima District’s rural landscape is set to witness a transformative moment as a newly constructed primary school prepares to throw open its doors, ushering in a brighter future for 300 eager young minds.
A decade-long ordeal has finally come to an end for scores of pupils in Norwood, Bulilima, who had to endure a gruelling 10-kilometre walk to access education at Solusi Primary School.
Speaking to Sunday News, Mr Landa Ndebele who is the chairman of the Bulilima Rural Development Committee said the construction of the new junior primary school in the heart of Norwood has brought immense relief to the community, saving students the exhausting daily commute that had become a daunting norm.
“This school is going to bring relief to our children who had to suffer trekking more than 10 kilometres daily to access basic education,” said Mr Ndebele.
With the new school now a reality, pupils can look forward to a safer, more convenient and conducive learning environment.
Mr Ndebele said the construction of the school is being financed entirely through Campfire dividends generously contributed by community members.
“We are selling river-sand here at Norwood and the money is not going to council, it comes straight to the community hence they have come up with this initiative to donate funds to construct this educational facility,” said Mr Ndebele.
This grassroots initiative is a shining testament to a collective vision and determination.
Mr Ndebele said as the inaugural phase of a larger vision, the single block we will start with will serve as the foundation for a comprehensive educational hub, empowering generations of Norwood’s children to thrive and reach their full potential.
“We are going to start with one block that has already been constructed and it’s going to serve the junior school that is from Grade 1 to Grade 3 students for now,” said Mr Ndebele.
The newly constructed primary school is poised for further expansion, with plans to add more blocks to cater to an increasing student population.
Mr Ndebele said that after the first cohort of Grade Three students completes their academic journey, the school is expected to be fully constructed, paving the way for the introduction of higher grades and a broader curriculum.
“We are expecting the full construction of more blocks and the school entirely to be finished before the first group of Grade 3’s finish to carter for more grade,” said Mr Ndebele.
A remarkable display of philanthropy has given the construction of Norwood Primary School’s classroom block a significant boost, with a generous donor coming forward to contribute a substantial quantity of building materials.
Mr Ndebele said one of the major buyers of the river-sand in the Norwood community has donated a bulk of the material, which will be instrumental in completing the finishing touches on the classroom block.
“One of our major river-sand customers has donated material for roofing the classroom block that has already been constructed,” said Mr Ndebele.
This selfless act of kindness has been hailed as a testament to the community’s spirit of unity and cooperation, as the school edges closer to completion.
This phased development is a testament to the community’s commitment to education, ensuring that future generations have access to a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment.
Online Reporter
