DIY floor polish Revolution: Hwange Schools cutting costs, empowering communities

Cleopatra Mpofu

Hwange- Imagine slashing school budgets without sacrificing sparkling clean floors—all with a simple recipe you can whip up in-house. That’s exactly what unfolded on Tuesday at Hwange High School, where a groundbreaking liquid floor polish workshop sparked a self-sufficiency movement.

Led by Mbali Ncube of ZIMEFU Trust, the event brought together school heads with a bold mission. “The main objective of this workshop was to equip school heads with the skills and knowledge necessary to produce their own liquid floor polish,” Ncube explained, setting the stage for a day of learning with far-reaching impact.

The idea is simple yet powerful: by mastering this DIY process, schools can reduce reliance on pricey commercial products. Participants didn’t just learn a recipe—they gained a tool for empowerment. “I am excited to share this new skill with my colleagues and students,” said Mrs. Munkuli, a representative from Mega Watt School. “It is a cost-effective way to maintain our school’s cleanliness.” Her enthusiasm was palpable, and she wasn’t alone in her excitement.

Echoing her sentiment, a Lesedi Primary School attendee remarked, “This workshop has been an eye-opener for me. I’ve learned something new and useful that will benefit my school community.” For these educators, the workshop offered more than just a lesson—it promised real-world impact. Clean floors might seem like a small win, but the savings could free up funds for critical needs like books, desks, or repairs.

Ncube emphasized the broader vision: “We want to minimize financial burdens on schools by providing an alternative to buying liquid floor polish.” The ripple effect is already in motion. School heads left the workshop ready to train others, ensuring the knowledge spreads from classrooms to corridors. One participant summed it up perfectly: “This workshop is a game-changer for us. We can now save money and channel it towards other pressing needs.

What started as a single-day event could mark the beginning of a self-reliance trend in education. By producing their own polish, schools aren’t just cutting costs—they’re fostering a culture of resourcefulness. Teachers and students alike stand to benefit, learning a hands-on skill that blends practicality with pride. As this initiative grows, it’s clear: the shine on those floors reflects more than polish—it’s the glow of empowerment.