Poor learners from three remote rural villages in the Mutale Municipality will now be able to further their studies without financial stumbling blocks, thanks to the formation of Madzivhanani, Tshidongololwe and Tshithuthuni (MTT) Youth Development Focus.

For the first time, the institution awarded bursaries to indigent learners during the weekend. A total amount of R5 440 was awarded to five beneficiaries at a glittering ceremony held at Tshidongololwe Primary School.

Avhatakali Mulovhedzi, Takalani Madzivhe, Mashudu Maalazwanda, Tshifhiwa Munyai and Ndishavhelafhi Munyai will now face the future with pride, due to the financial assistance. Mulovhedzi and Madzivhe are Univen and Techniven students respectively, while the other three are high school learners. Mulovhedzi received R2 000 while Madzivhe was presented with a cheque of R1250. High school learners received R730 worth of bursaries each during the function.

One of the beneficiaries, Avhatakali Mulovhedzi, was on cloud nine shortly after the presentation.

“This is a major boost to my studies as I come from a very poor family. I pass my sincere gratitude to MTT for coming to my rescue. Thanks a million, MTT…”

MTT’s coordinator, Thiathu Ravhura, explains why the non-profit institution was formed.

“We felt there was a need to start a fund that will assist indigent learners to further their studies. This community is feeling the heavy burden of poverty, unemployment and illiteracy. Apart from assisting the three villages, MTT will also extend its services to the whole of Mutale Municipal area as soon as we raise enough funds…”

Ravhura also said MTT aims at increasing the number of graduates in the three villages.

“Less than five people posses university degrees in Tshidongololwe village and we felt we had to do something to encourage the youth to study further. Education is the only key to prosperity and we need to strive hard to educate our nation…”

Formed last year, MMT timeously conducts fundraising activities to beef up their financial standing. Ravhura said MTT will organize other fundraising activities in the near future and urged the community to support them. He passed special gratitude to all community members who have supported MTT’s activities since its formation.

“We pledge support from academics, businesspeople and community members who care about the future of our kids. It is our collective responsibility to make the youth responsible future leaders who will lead our country with integrity…”

Ravhura says the future plans of MTT include establishment of a community library and the offering of career guidance sessions to learners.

Community members who would like to know more about MTT or want to assist can call Ravhura at 082 417 4427.