Important businesswoman inaugurates computer laboratory and library in the rural area of Gutu
Gutu, Zimbabwe – March 23, 2024 Divine Simbi Ndhlukula, a leading philanthropist and award-winning businesswoman, launched a state-of-the-art computer lab and library program at the Makudo Business Center in rural Gutu, which also houses Ndhlukula. This innovative initiative marks an important milestone in the advancement of education and access to technology in the region.
The launch event took place on Saturday, March 23 at the Mbuya Mary Simbi (MMS) Library in Makudo, Gutu. Notably, this initiative coincided with SECURICO’s celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024, further emphasizing its commitment to empowering communities, particularly women and girls, through education and technology.
In 2021, the MMS Library was inaugurated as a beacon of knowledge and learning in the rural community of Gutu. Recognizing the importance of bridging the digital divide, Dr Divine Simbi Ndhlukula set a key goal of developing a computer lab within the library premises. This visionary initiative marks an important milestone as the computer lab is the first of its kind in the district. Its establishment aims to serve seven primary and secondary schools, providing students with access to digital resources and tools for their academic journey.
The development of the MMS Library and Computer Laboratory Program in rural Gutu has been a collaborative effort, with contributions from both individuals and organizations dedicated to promoting education and access to technology in the region.
At the launch of her debut book “Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Growing Business in a Fluid Economy” in February, Dr. Divine pledged to raise funds to make her long-held dream of a computer lab for rural students in her home a reality. hometown. . An auction was held and some notable people like Ken Sharpe, Gloria Zvaravanhu, Emilia Chisango and others rose to the occasion, who in turn helped with the hardware.
investment. Part of the profits from the book are channeled to the Divine Simbi Ndhlukula Foundation, which was instrumental in the creation of the library 3 years ago. SECURICO has also been a great benefactor of this initiative, supporting the library’s infrastructure as well as the human resources costs to hire a librarian, among other necessary resources.
Your support underscores the collective commitment to creating a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within the community, as well as closing the digital divide in rural communities.
Dr. Divine Simbi-Ndhlukula expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support and emphasized that the proceeds from her book will be channeled to help the less privileged.
The lab’s launch event saw a distinguished gathering of key figures from the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to promoting education and access to technology in rural areas.
Among the notable attendees was the Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera (MP); Masvingo Provincial Director of Education Shylette Mhike. Education officials from the district and area schools, the local community leader, Chief Chitsa, representatives from the United Nations Development Programme, the Divine Network and many friends of the MMS Library. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government entities, community leaders, and private businesses to address the challenges facing underserved communities.
Additionally, the event featured enlightening speeches from Ms. Emilia Chisango, who emphasized the role of education and technology in advancing the community, and Ms. Elizabeth Magaya, who eloquently addressed the topic “Inspiring Inclusion.” for International Women’s Day 2024.
This initiative exemplifies the power of partnerships in creating a more equitable and digitally literate society, ultimately paving the way to a better future for Gutu youth.
During her speech at the event, Dr. Divine Simbi Ndhlukula articulated her vision on the transformative impact of donation on the community. With sincere conviction, she highlighted the profound value of reading and access to knowledge in shaping the future of Gutu’s youth.
Ndhlukula added: “Inside the Mbuya Mary Simbi Library and Laboratory hangs a colossal world map, inspiring students to dream widely, transcending the limits of their immediate reality. The numerous books contained within will undoubtedly propel your minds towards a brighter tomorrow. Now, these young minds can imagine a future that extends beyond the limits of their immediate environment. In retrospect, I owe my greatest gifts: love, industriousness, and passion for books to my parents. Books, the gateway to unexplored worlds for those who dare to dream, allowed me to present to diverse audiences, lead experts and defend my business.” She said.
