Former Ntalale Secondary School students lead renovation efforts
Milton Mashasha
Gwanda-Former students of Ntalale Secondary School in Gwanda, Matabeleland South, have spearheaded a significant school renovation project, pooling resources to uplift their former institution.
The alumni, under the banners of Sediba saThuso and Tswaranang Babirwa, have mobilized funds and materials to restore the school, located in Ward 11 under Chief Kgwatalala.
Established in 1984, Ntalale Secondary School has long been a key educational institution, serving students from multiple primary schools across nearby villages and wards. However, wear and tear over the decades left its facilities in dire need of refurbishment.
Agnes Mathe, Chairperson of the School Development Committee (SDC) expressed her deep appreciation for the contributions of the former students.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to our school head, Sipiwe Nkomo, the kraal head, parents, villagers, and especially the former students for their outstanding efforts in renovating and developing our school,” she said. “It’s heartwarming to see them return to support their community, offering monetary, material, and developmental assistance.”
Mathe further highlighted the impact of the alumni’s efforts, emphasizing the value of collective action. “These former students pursued different careers both within and beyond Zimbabwe, and have now formed groups like Sediba saThuso and Tswaranang Babirwa to give back to the school, focusing on much-needed repairs, particularly to the floors.”
“Their initiative is a testament to the power of unity. As the SDC Chairperson, it is my duty to ensure the school’s facilities are maintained, but their support has been a tremendous relief,” Mathe added.
Qoqani Ndlovu, a successful local businessman and one of the founding members of the initiative, echoed similar sentiments. Ndlovu has been actively involved in supervising and coordinating the renovation project.
“As parents and former students, we felt it was crucial to renovate our school, especially the floors, to create a healthier and more conducive learning environment for the students,” Ndlovu explained. “The condition of the floors had deteriorated significantly, and immediate action was needed.”
Ndlovu also extended his thanks to the many individuals and businesses that contributed to the project. “I’d like to express my appreciation to Nedricky Industries, former students Shadreck Mabanga and Hilary Ncube, our local kraal heads including James Sebata, the villagers, builders, and everyone else who played a role in this initiative. Together, we provided funds, materials, manpower, and support. I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done. We must continue to push for development—backward never!”
The renovation of Ntalale Secondary School is a shining example of how communities can unite to improve their local infrastructure, ensuring a better future for generations to come.
