The initiative is the brainchild of a group of friends including Andrew
Dirwai, who completed secondary school last year. He says he and his
colleagues decided they wanted to contribute by keeping younger
children out of mischief. Dirwai says,"We realized most children were
now fond of playing games and in mischief most of the time forgetting
there is school. This is as a result of the prolonged school holiday.
We had to chip in and offer ourselves to do our part despite not having
any formal training in school teaching."
Another founding member, Arthur Mzama, says he’s been surprised by the
influx of learners. He says the size of their classes continues to
swell, "Many children are coming for the program. We are amazed by the
interest from them and the support from their parents who are sending
them to us. Ours is voluntary while some are charging for the education
which i think most parents are finding it difficult to afford as the
professional tutors charges in foreign currency."
The Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ church, the center accommodating the
education program, seemed a shambles as volunteers tried to divide
youngsters into classes according to their ages.
Melody Chiguware was having a tough time trying to keep excited
toddlers quiet. She said she’s delighted to be imparting some of what
she’s learned to deserving and eager youngsters, "I offered myself to
this duty realizing children were being deprived an education at a time
when it is crucial as they are tomorrow’s leaders. Having nothing much
to do at home after completing secondary education I find it noble to
do something for my community."
Another of the voluntary ‘tutors’, Nomatter Kativhu, explains if
children spend some time in the classroom, rather than roaming the
streets, they retain some of their focus and self-discipline. He
explains their group could not sit by idly while the government gave
the go-ahead for a continued holiday.
We are all teenagers who know the importance of education. We are
beneficiaries of a good education ourselves though it was not the best,
but what we are realizing is that our youngsters are bound to lose if
we just sit and watch. It is better we do something than stare and do
nothing."
The work of the volunteers is being supervised by retired teacher
Dorothy Jonga who also runs an early developmental & educational
center. She too is a member of St .Gideon’s. The experienced educator
is concerned about the lack of infrastructure, including an absence of
shade,
"Our work is moving on well but as the children are increasing in
number we are now faced with a shortage of chairs. It is the rainy
season and not all of the children can be accommodated in the church
temporary shelter, some have to sit outside in the open, exposed to the
sun, wind and rain. If [we] can have a tent and benches it would help
us a lot."
However, she’s quick to add she’s thrilled in the interest shown by
local children who’re eager to learn. The children are accommodated in
a wooden shelter on the church’s premises. The program caters to
learners of every denomination.
VOA News
Post published in: News