Jonathan Moyo speaks on ZIMDEF saga

The Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development, Professor Jonathan Moyo has defended the use of the Zimbabwe Manpower Development Fund (ZIMDEF), saying it was to fulfil national duties.

Professor Moyo, his deputy, Godfrey Gandawa and some ZIMDEF officials stand accused of abuse of office, fraud and money laundering and the former escaped arrest last week, while the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission is seeking to quiz them over the allegations.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony of 275 primary school teachers at Madziwa Teachers College at today, Professor Moyo said it is mischievous to present ZIMDEF as a student fund or scholarship fund.

He said since its inception, ZIMDEF has supported various public programmes not only as part of its core mandate but also as an expression of corporate social responsibility.

"It is important for those interested in ZIMDEF's skills development to understand that skills development is not only about classroom or on the job training but also, and even more important, about the promotion of requisite societal attitudes, values and aspirations that underpin and drive human capital development," added Professor Moyo.

He also underscored the key role that ZIMDEF has played in the launch of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiative.

Madziwa Teachers College Principal, Mrs Memory Moyo said the institution has embraced the ministry's policy thrust that emphasises STEM in an integrated, inter-disciplinary and practical way.

"The college is fully cognisant that in order for our nation to emerge as an economic powerhouse, this is enormously dependent on insight from STEM," she said.

The Madziwa Teachers College's 7th graduation ceremony was held under the theme: 'Transforming Teachers Education through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).