Makonde short of secondary schools

THE absence of secondary schools in some wards in Makonde has been blamed for the increase in early child marriages in the district.

Villagers from Ward 6 in Mhangura believe lack of opportunities have contributed to the challenge in the district.

The villagers from Nyakasikana, Glynamel, Baguta and surrounding areas rely on the Nyakasikana Skwindle Secondary School which accommodates pupils from six primary schools in the area.

According to village head Mr Shepherd Magwana, a number of secondary school-going children failed to continue with their education.

“The distance to be covered by the pupils has become a deterrent as most of the children opt to stay at home after completing their primary education,” he said.

“Most girls end up getting married at a very tender age as there is nothing to occupy them.”

Mubakwa village head Mr Jacob Chimhofu urged authorities to open another secondary school to save the situation.

“In the current set-up, only the boys end up attending secondary school as parents fear for their daughters travelling the long distances,” he said.

The villagers also expressed hope that the Zanu-PF Government led by President Mnangagwa wins the forthcoming elections to enable them fulfil their 2018 election campaign manifesto.

In its manifesto, the ruling party aims at uplifting the status and role of women through the achievement of gender equality in all spheres of political, socio-economic development, control of productive resources and access to finance amongst other areas.

The villagers also expressed hope that the party’s plans to establish more vocational training centres would be helpful in developing their areas.