Zimbabwe: Councillor Wilfred Chuma – Transforming Education in Ward 9, Ruwa.
Councillor Wilfred Chuma who represents Ward 9 under the Ruwa Local Board in Zimbabwe, is a leader driven by service, community engagement, and a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for those he serves. In his daily interactions with residents, he listens closely to their concerns and observes the challenges they face, particularly within the education sector. It was during these engagements that he identified a pressing problem at Rujeko Primary School where students were learning under difficult conditions due to shortages of basic materials such as stationery, books, and even shoes.
To his great relief his relationship with Gender Links Zimbabwe started on a junior councillors induction where the adult councillors gave session on leadership and governance. This platform also exposed the deep-sited challenges that marginalised learners were facing. The councillor determined to change this, organised a meeting with the school administration to understand the full extent of their needs. With their insights, he mobilised community support and gathered essential resources including stationery, textbooks, and school shoes. These items, though simple, carried the power to transform the learning experience of hundreds of children. When the day of the handover arrived, the school was filled with joy and anticipation. Smiles lit up the faces of learners as Councillor Chuma distributed the materials, standing alongside the Headmaster, Mrs. Mupopa, and the school staff.
The difference was immediate and profound. One student expressed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “Receiving the stationery and shoes has made a huge difference for me. I can now focus on my studies without worrying about not having the right materials. Thank you, Councillor Chuma.” Teachers also felt the effect of the initiative since the additional resources enabled them to prepare more engaging lessons and support students better than before. The Headmaster, Mrs. Mupopa, described the initiative as transformative, stating, “Councillor Chuma’s initiative has been a game-changer for our school.
The resources provided have significantly improved our students’ ability to learn and engage with their studies. We are grateful for his support and look forward to more collaborations.” It was noted that parents, who often struggled to provide basic school materials for their children welcomed the support with deep appreciation. One of them, Mrs. Moyo, shared, “As a parent, it’s heart-warming to see our children receiving the support they need to succeed. Councillor Chuma’s initiative has not only helped my child but many others in the community. We are truly thankful for his dedication to our children’s education.”
The evidence of change is clear as teachers report increased participation in class, improved attendance, and greater enthusiasm among the learners. Students now come to school with complete uniforms and proper learning materials, which has restored their confidence and dignity. This gesture is expected to improve the pass rate of the assisted children. Photographs taken during the handover and classroom interactions show a revitalised school environment, full of energy and hope. The atmosphere at Rujeko Primary has shifted into one that is far more conducive to learning and growth. This initiative has not only addressed immediate needs but has laid the foundation for long-term educational improvement.
To ensure the sustainability of this change, Councillor Chuma continues to engage the community, build partnerships with local businesses, NGOs, and other stakeholders, and advocate for resource provision as part of a broader school development plans. His goal is to replicate this model across other schools in Ward 9, ensuring that more learners benefit from improved educational opportunities.
Councillor Wilfred Chuma’s work at Rujeko Primary stands as a powerful example of what community driven leadership can achieve. Tremendous motivation was built in students when stationery, books, and shoes were handed to deserving students. The act of giving especially when well organised and through collaborative efforts and dedication to service drives lasting positive change.
By Wilfred Chuma, Zimbabwe