Hwange – Learners from eight schools in Hwange District gathered in Makwandara Village for a career guidance day hosted by Sabona Trust, an event aimed at equipping rural learners with information to help shape their academic and professional paths.
The participating schools included Lupote, Marist Brothers, Nelichilibi, Dampa, and Detema. Learners had the opportunity to interact with professionals from various sectors in Hwange and beyond, gaining firsthand insight into possible career options.
The Junior Member of Parliament for Hwange East, Andile Thabo Chitungwa, expressed satisfaction with Sabona Trust’s efforts to bring career guidance to rural learners.
“We appreciate what Sabona Trust is doing in our community. It is rare to see so many professionals in one place, willing to guide us in our academic paths,” Chitungwa said.
The career guidance day ran under the theme “No to Drugs, Yes to Education”, carrying a strong message that education is a powerful tool for overcoming challenges such as drug abuse, child marriages, and teenage pregnancies.
Hwange District Schools Inspector, Mr Lunguza Moyo, highlighted the critical role of education in empowering individuals and communities.
“Education gives learners knowledge, skills, and confidence. It opens doors to opportunities, broadens horizons, and fosters personal growth. By making informed choices, our children can unlock their potential and pursue careers that bring fulfilment and contribute to community development,” he said.
Moyo also warned about challenges that derail educational journeys, noting how drug abuse can lead to addiction, child marriages rob children of their future, and teenage pregnancies interrupt schooling and limit prospects.
He emphasised that solutions require collective responsibility.
“As a society, we must stand firm against these challenges. Our children need the support and resources to stay in school, pursue their dreams, and access opportunities in education, healthcare, and mentorship,” he said.
The event also underscored the importance of aligning education with future job market demands while considering students’ interests and community needs. By doing so, organisers believe youth can be better prepared for opportunities and challenges ahead.
“To students, embrace education with passion. To parents and educators, continue providing guidance and foster an environment of learning and resilience. Education is a powerful tool for shaping futures — let us use it to equip our children with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed,” he said.
The Sabona Trust Career Guidance Day left learners inspired and better informed, reaffirming the importance of collaboration in promoting a culture of learning and growth in Hwange’s rural communities.
However,Sabona Trust is an aid organization that works at the grassroots to improve the standard of living for rural communities of Matabeleland North Prov-ince. Located in Mabale Wards 16 and 17 which covers a population of 7028
Since 2000, Sabona has partnered with local schools, providing vulnerable children with educational opportunities by covering their tuition fees from Early Childhood Development to University level, particularly focusing on academically gifted individuals. Through sponsorship programs, children gain access to schooling, offering respite from the difficulties they face at home. Sabona is dedicated to realizing UN Sustainable Development Goal number 4.
