MUKUMBANI – Education and traditional leadership were merged when the Zimbabwean Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Dr Stan Mudenge, paid a courtesy visit to Thovhele Kennedy Tshivhase at Mukumbani Royal Palace on Sunday afternoon.

Although Dr Mudenge is in the country for an educational visit, he said it was important to visit Thovhele Tshivhase because traditional leadership and education cannot be separated.

A distinctive historical author, Dr Mudenge said Zimbabwean universities want to introduce some of the South African indigenous languages, and as such, there is a need to work hand in hand with the traditional leaders.

“Languages, like Venda and Shangaan, will be introduced at the University of Masvingo in the near future. It is important to engage traditional leaders in the process of implementing the syllabi because we will need more knowledge from them. I believe our visit to His Majesty will pave the way for constructive interaction between South Africa and Zimbabwe. We will also work together with the University of Venda to make sure that we achieve our educational goals. Through cooperation and hard work, South Africa and Zimbabwe can achieve more.”

The minister was also grateful for the wonderful reception he received from Thovhele Tshivhase and his council. Thovhele Tshivhase said he is happy that the emotional attachment between South Africans and Zimbabweans has been revived through the visit of the minister. “We have never regarded Zimbabweans as commoners here at the royal palace because we originated from the same roots. The visit of the minister is a clear indication that there is a close bond between education and traditional leadership.”

Thovhele Tshivhase also briefed the minister about the vision and developmental strategies of the Tshivhase dynasty. Amongst others, he tabled job creation strategies, empowerment, economic development and tourism.

After the formal meeting, Thovhele Tshivhase led the minister in an experiential excursion around the royal palace.

* Dr Mudenge has also visited the University of Venda, the Dzata Ruins and Mapungubwe. His trip will continue to Unisa, Wits University, and the Universities of Cape Town and Natal.