Harare, Zimbabwe – 4 April 2025 – Demonstrating its commitment to inclusive education, Midlands State University (MSU) celebrated the graduation of its second cohort of Early Childhood Development (ECD) Foundations Certificate recipients at the MSU School of Social Work.
The programme, offered in Zimbabwe’s constitutionally recognised languages, equips educators with the skills, knowledge, and emotional resilience essential for nurturing young learners.
Attended by MSU staff, graduates, and their families, the ceremony was a jubilant celebration of perseverance and achievement, with cheers and applause filling the venue.
Dr. Muridzo, Director of the MSU School of Social Work, welcomed the graduates on behalf of Harare Campus Director Dr. T. Mashingaidze, commending their dedication.
“You have fought a good fight, you have finished the race, and you have kept the faith. Today, you are crowned with knowledge,” said Dr. Muridzo.
He emphasised that the certificates represent more than academic milestones—they are “tools for societal transformation.”
In her address, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Education, Dr. A. Moyo, underscored the programme’s role in strengthening early childhood development across linguistic communities.
“This course empowers all language groups in Zimbabwe. Whether you speak ChiBarwe, English, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sign Language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, or Xhosa, this qualification provides a strong foundation to make a meaningful impact in your communities,” she stated.
Dr. Moyo congratulated the graduates not only on their personal achievements but also for contributing to MSU’s 25-year legacy of academic excellence and community transformation.
The certificate handover marked the ceremony’s climax, with each graduate’s name met by exuberant cheers and ululations—a testament to their hard work and aspirations.
For many, the certificates symbolised stories of resilience, opening new chapters in their professional lives.
One graduate, Yemurai Huni, shared her excitement about the opportunities ahead:
“I’ve long wanted to open an ECD centre, but the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education required this certification. Now, thanks to MSU, I can finally pursue my dream.”
Jessie Kachingwe, delivering the vote of thanks, likened the programme to a rewarding marathon:
“The ECD Foundations Course challenged us mentally, but today, we cross the finish line—ready for the next race.”
Aligned with its multilingual policy, Midlands State University continues to bridge educational gaps, ensuring equitable access to learning across Zimbabwe’s linguistic landscape.