Gold miner pays fees for underprivileged learners

Shamva-based gold mining company Ming Chang has reaffirmed its commitment to community development by donating thousands of dollars worth of school fees and stationery to underprivileged learners at Ming Chang Primary School, in a continuation of its corporate social responsibility efforts across Zimbabwe.

The mining firm, which built the school before officially handing it over to the government in 2016, has consistently provided financial support to disadvantaged pupils over the years. At a handover ceremony held yesterday, the company granted US$1,200 in school fees assistance to 20 students in need, alongside the distribution of essential learning materials.

Ming Chang General Manager Liang Guo Du said the donation was part of a broader commitment to uplifting communities in the areas where the company operates. He revealed that the firm had approved several other support projects, including the drilling of boreholes and restoration of power supply at the school.

"We have already approved the project and now we await commencement," Liang said, noting that a new transformer would soon be installed to address the school's electricity challenges.

Beyond education, the miner has invested millions of U.S. dollars into key community development sectors, including road rehabilitation, water and sanitation, healthcare outreach programmes, and skills training initiatives.

However, despite the support, Ming Chang Primary School continues to face infrastructure challenges. School head Itai Mutizwa raised concerns over teacher accommodation, which he said had affected learning outcomes.

"We have teachers coming from as far as Bindura and other rural parts of the area, and this affects the smooth delivery of lessons," Mutizwa said. He appealed for the construction of additional classroom blocks and staff housing to ease pressure on the institution.

In response, the mining company said it would address the identified needs in phases, calling on parents and guardians to actively participate in spearheading and supporting community development efforts.

The donation and upcoming projects underscore Ming Chang's ongoing partnership with the Shamva community and reflect growing efforts by the private sector to contribute meaningfully to national development goals, particularly in the education sector.