As Development Aid from people to People Zimbabwe, we believe that education is a fundamental human right and the foundation for peace. It has the power to promote and embrace solidarity, diversity, inclusiveness and sustainable development.
In late 2025, the African Union launched a new campaign to “end learning poverty, update skills, and modernise education systems.” The campaign is a continental commitment to spotlight education over the next decade.
On this Africa Day, 25 May 2026, we join their call. We must all keep up the pressure to rethink, repurpose and reshape education. One of the questions we need to ask is what education for the 21st century looks like in practice, and what kind of education equips young people to build the lives they want and the world needs.
As DAPP Zimbabwe, we have learned a simple yet powerful lesson from decades of working alongside communities: education is not delivered; it is built together. With a longstanding presence in education and skills development across eight African countries, we connect learning, livelihoods, and community development. Our Ponesai Vanhu Technical College in Shamva District bridges the gap between education and opportunity through practical, real-life training that enables young people to work and earn a living, or start their own ventures.
Since 1981, more than 7,800 young people have graduated from our Ponesai Vanhu Technical College across various domains which are Motor Mechanics, Beauty Therapy, Garment and Pattern Construction, Hotel and Catering, building, Horticulture only to mention a few.
The college conducts mobile outreach training programmes that reach young people in marginalized communities, providing practical skills training with certification accredited by Bindura University of Science Education. We enrol youths who can read and write but do not meet the entry requirements for higher and tertiary education.
Students in trades such as motor vehicle maintenance and construction complete industrial attachments lasting up to a year before graduating, gaining practical work experience before entering the labour market or starting their own activities.
This Africa Day serves as a reminder that we must invest in young people so they can build livelihoods, support families, strengthen local economies, and contribute to resilient nation-building. By strengthening education and skills systems today, Africa can unlock the full potential of its next generation.