First Class Academy scholarship programme hailed
MINISTER of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs, Cde Mandi Chimene, has hailed First Class Academy for working tirelessly in improving education standards in Manicaland.
Cde Chimene who was represented by deputy Provincial Education Director, Mrs Clara Kanoerera during the college’s scholarship awarding programme dubbed Starter Pack last Friday, she said: “True to the college’s motto, it is at First Class Academy where standards are set. The college is moulding a rounded and useful student who will contribute meaningful to the country’s development.
“The construction of a Science block at the college demonstrates the seriousness which the Responsible Authority here values education. We share the same vision with the college which has continued churning out high achievers who have contributed in various spheres of life. The 92 percent pass-rate obtained during last November’s A-Level Zimsec examinations should act as a motivator to all students here.”
The college’s outgoing head girl, Florence Mwashita was hailed for her outstanding performance as she scored 20 points in last year’s A-Level results.
A total of 358 students set for A-Level examinations and 287 obtained six points and above.
As part of its social responsibility programme, the college reimburse all students who would have obtained 15 points and above school fees they would have paid during their final year at the college. LAST Friday’s recipients received $420 each, which they will use to pay part of their university fees during the first semester.
Speaking at the same occasion, First Class Academy principal, Mr Stephen Mutsongodza, said it was always his dream to assist needy students to excel in their education.
“I was inspired by His Excellency, President Mugabe’s desire to assist needy students through the Presidential Scholarship Scheme, which has seen some students enrolling at universities in South Africa. Together with my wife, Mrs Tracy Matenga-Mutsongodza we agreed to come up with a scholarship to deserving students who would have excelled in their studies.
“We are here today to announce that there is no going back on the scholarship programme. We want this to act as a motivator to other students to work hard. For those who are leaving us, I want to urge you to go out there and be yourself. With education, you can free yourself from mental slavery,” said Mr Mutsongodza.
He said they were trying to encourage more students to take up Science subjects through the construction of the Science laboratory at the college.
The headmaster, Mr Stephen Chiwara, said: “We continue to dream big at this college. From a humble beginning of three students in 2005, the college now has an enrolment of about 1 200 students. We are driven by a vision to roll out productive human resources.
‘‘We will continue rewarding heroes and heroines who excel in their education.”