India-Zimbabwe forge partnership  for progress Bulawayo Minister for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Judith Ncube reads a plaque after its unveilinng by outgoing Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Vijay Khanduja (left) at the commisioning of an ECD classroom block at Masuku Primary School in Bulawayo yesterday. Looking on are Deputy minister of Industry and Commerce Cde Raj Modi, Politburo member, Rtd Col Tshinga Dube, Pelandaba-Tshabalala legislator Cde Joseph Tshuma. Picture Eliah Saushoma

Peter Matika, [email protected]

OUTGOING Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Vijay Khanduja has reiterated his government’s steadfast dedication to bolstering Zimbabwe’s economic development agenda, underscoring the strong bilateral ties between the two countries. 

Speaking during a handover ceremony of an Early Childhood Learning (ECD) classroom block at Masuku Primary School in Tshabalala suburb in Bulawayo yesterday, Ambassador Khanduja reaffirmed India’s commitment to assisting Zimbabwe in its goal of achieving a middle-income economy by 2030.

Named after the popular Mahatma Gandhi, the independence activist and leader who played a key role in India’s peaceful resistance movement against British colonial rule, the classroom is complete with modern amenities. The Indian government funded the construction of the building to the tune of   US$65 000.

The classroom block features state-of-the-art facilities that include age-appropriate ablution amenities, designed to cater for the diverse needs of children, including those with disabilities. 

Ambassador Khanduja, said India’s dedication to boosting the education and health sectors in Zimbabwe dates back to the 14th Century.

“It is a privilege for India to contribute towards Zimbabwe’s vision of attaining a middle-income economy by 2030. Education and healthcare are pillars of development, and we are proud to play a part in enhancing these essential sectors in Zimbabwe,” he said.

Ambassador Khanduja said education, health, energy and water management are some of the sectors in which Zimbabwe is actively collaborating with India.

He said his country is working closely with the Government to ensure that some of the country’s key developmental projects are completed.

“The work on the Deka pumping and river water intake system, established with a line of credit of US$48 million, was completed last year. We have provided funds for climate-resilient agriculture from the India-UN Development Partnership Fund for the districts of Chiredzi and Mangwe,” said Ambassador Khanduja.

He said through strengthened relations between the two countries, Zimbabwe has managed to acquire medicines, vaccines, and ambulances. 

“We have donated cancer detection equipment to the country. We want to see the medical facilities improve. We provide nominal quality healthcare that many Zimbabweans are benefitting from,” said Ambassador Khanduja. 

He said India stands boldly alongside Zimbabwe’s aspirations of re-engaging the world, through its thrust of the engagement and re-engagement agenda to forge relationships that will bring the much-needed foreign investment.

“One of the Indo-Zim Technology centres has been established at the National University of Science and Technology and has been equipped with state-of-the-art machinery. Over 3 000 students from Zimbabwe are studying in India, among them under the Presidential Scholarship programme,” said Ambassador Khanduja.

“We also have provided more than 200 ITEC slots for capacity building to Zimbabwe.”

Ambassador Khanduja said the collaboration between India and Zimbabwe in the field of education and health underscores the strong bond between the two nations.

“The newly commissioned Mahatma Gandhi ECD classroom block stands as a symbol of this enduring partnership, showcasing India’s commitment to empowering Zimbabwean communities through quality infrastructure and inclusive facilities,” he said.

 “Our collective efforts today will shape a brighter tomorrow for the children of Zimbabwe. By providing them with holistic education and ensuring their well-being, we are sowing the seeds for a prosperous future.”

Ambassador Khanduja said the initiative, not only signifies India’s tangible support for Zimbabwe’s development goals, but also highlights the mutual respect and friendship shared between the two nations. 

“As India and Zimbabwe continue to collaborate in advancing education and healthcare initiatives, the path towards a thriving and inclusive society becomes increasingly attainable,” he said. 

Among dignitaries who attended the event were Industry and Commerce Deputy Minister Raj Modi, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube, Zanu-PF Politburo member, Retired Colonel Tshinga Dube, Pelandaba-Tshabalala legislator Cde Joseph Tshuma and Ward 20 Councillor Cde Sandra Ndebele-Sibindi.

Speaking during the same event, Minister Ncube welcomed the completion of the classroom block, saying it will have positive impact on the city’s educational landscape.

She said the upgraded infrastructure is poised to enhance the overall educational experience for both learners and teachers at the school.

“We are grateful for the support from India in the construction of the ECD classroom block at Masuku Primary School. This new facility will not only benefit the current learners but also future generations, providing them with a solid foundation for their education,” she said.

Cde Modi, who facilitated the collaboration, said he is happy with the outcome and will continue to forge relations with investors to seal Zimbabwe’s development agenda. 

 

 

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