South African company builds rural Zimbabwe school laboratory in just 14 days

By IOL

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A SOUTH African company has completed a fully equipped science laboratory at a rural secondary school in Zimbabwe in just 14 days, in a project aimed at improving access to practical science education for hundreds of learners.

The facility at Sojini Secondary School in Mbembesi Village, outside Bulawayo, was officially handed over on Saturday, October 31, following an initiative by Zimbabwean businesswoman Zodwa Mkandla through her foundation.

South African company Afribiz Invest was responsible for constructing the laboratory, which is intended to give learners access to practical science facilities that are often more readily available at better-resourced urban schools.

The project could help broaden opportunities for learners interested in pursuing careers in fields such as science, engineering and medicine.

The handover ceremony was attended by senior Zimbabwean government officials, including a delegation led by Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo. The event was held under the auspices of the Office of First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.

School alumna returns to invest in community
The project also has a personal significance for Mkandla, who attended Sojini Secondary School herself before returning to invest in educational opportunities for children from the community.

Through the Zodwa Mkandla Foundation, the initiative extended beyond the laboratory, with 200 food parcels, blankets and wheelchairs distributed to vulnerable elderly residents.

Nearly 400 schoolgirls also received sanitary dignity pads.

The partnership between the foundation and Afribiz Invest highlights the role that private-sector involvement and philanthropic initiatives can play in supporting communities where resources are limited.

While the laboratory took just two weeks to construct, its longer-term value will depend on how effectively it is used to give learners practical experience and strengthen science education at the school.

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