Thembelihle Mhlanga
Lupane, Zimbabwe — Imagine a school where students don’t just study agriculture—they live it, transforming barren plots into thriving fields of sorghum and small grains. At Tshongokwe Primary School, this vision is reality, thanks to the groundbreaking Intwasa Farming Technology.
What began as an educational experiment has blossomed into a beacon of sustainability, catching the eye of parents, community leaders, and even international supporters.
Headmaster Alec Buthelezi doesn’t mince words about its impact. “It is crucial for our school to adhere to the Intwasa farming methods,” he says. “By doing so, we are not only educating our learners but also impacting the wider community positively.” This isn’t just about growing crops—it’s about growing a future for rural Zimbabwe, one harvest at a time.
The secret sauce? Intwasa Farming Technology, a sustainable method designed to boost productivity while safeguarding the land. Funded by Seniors Without Borders, the project has turned the school into a hands-on classroom. Students dive into every step—planting, tending, and harvesting—gaining practical skills that textbooks alone could never teach. The result? A crop yield that’s feeding both bellies and ambitions.
Israel Nkomo of the Christian Youth Volunteers Association Trust (CYVAT) can barely contain his excitement. “The dedication and hard work shown by both the school staff and the learners are commendable,” he says. “This project is not just about farming; it’s about instilling a sense of responsibility and ownership among the youths.” For these kids, the fields are more than a lesson—they’re a legacy.
The ripple effect is undeniable. Parents marvel at the transformation unfolding before their eyes. “I have seen a remarkable improvement in the students’ understanding of agriculture,” one local parent shares. “It’s heartwarming to see our children taking pride in what they grow.” From the classroom to the community, pride is sprouting alongside the crops.
What sets Tshongokwe apart is how seamlessly the project weaves together education and real-world impact. Students aren’t just learning teamwork and collaboration—they’re mastering sustainable practices critical for food security in rural areas. As the school fine-tunes this model, it’s becoming a blueprint for others across the region.
With unwavering support from Seniors Without Borders and CYVAT, Tshongokwe Primary School isn’t just planting seeds—it’s sowing hope. As this tiny institution leads the charge in farming innovation, it’s proving that the smallest hands can cultivate the biggest change. For Zimbabwe’s next generation, the harvest is only beginning.
