By Staff Reporter
Harare — Over 165 female students at Muguta Secondary School received sanitary wear, stationery, and renewed hope during a donation drive organized by NGO School Run Shuttle and Epworth North MP Zivai Mhetu on Friday.
The initiative aimed to combat period poverty, which forces many girls to miss school due to inadequate menstrual hygiene resources.
Each student received two packets of sanitary pads, pens, and exercise books, addressing both health and educational needs.
“We previously relied on unhygienic materials, like cloths, that posed health risks, so this donation is a huge relief.
“Many of us struggle to afford proper sanitary wear, but now we can focus on our studies without the fear of missing school due to our periods,” shared a student, referencing the health dangers of improvised solutions like unsterilized cloths.
Prolonged use of such materials can lead to bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, and fungal diseases, health experts warn.
MP Mhetu emphasized empowering girls through education under the slogan, “Girl Child, The Sky Is The Limit.”
A girl child should be independent so that she can take care of herself and her family in the future. If she finds a supportive husband, that’s a bonus, but the main goal is to help her stand on her own,” he said.
Mhetu linked the initiative to Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 policy, which prioritizes innovation and self-reliance.
“Girls should be encouraged to value education as a pathway out of extreme poverty.
“With dedication and creativity, they can contribute meaningful solutions to national challenges,” added Mhetu.
Nancy Mufudza, founder of School Run Shuttle, urged students to pursue ambitious careers, sparking aspirations ranging from military service to medicine.
Despite the donation’s immediate impact, school officials highlighted systemic struggles during a meeting with Mhetu.
Constance Kambunga, Vice Chair of the School Development Committee, cited unpaid staff salaries, a defunct school vehicle, and delayed BEAM (Basic Education Assistance Module) funding since 2022.
Over 75% of students rely on BEAM, which has left fees unpaid for two years, crippling operations.
Muguta Secondary also grapples with poor road access, contributing to high staff turnover, and a lack of electricity in its offices.
An NGO’s withdrawal of sponsorship for 16 students has compounded financial strain.
Mhetu outlined steps to address these issues, including pursuing electrification funding, road repairs, and a fundraising drive for solar power, a boundary wall, and a new vehicle.
He also pledged to lobby for BEAM payments and explore agricultural projects under the Presidential Agricultural Scheme.
Headmaster N. Kanyerere welcomed the support but stressed urgency of sustainable interventions.
