By Takudzwa Changadeya
Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has promised comprehensive student grant and loan programs to enable tertiary students to pursue their educational dreams without the burden of financial constraints.
Addressing thousands who thronged his rally at Dulibadzimu Stadium on Sunday, Chamisa said these programs will offer financial assistance to deserving students regardless of their economic background.
He also said his government will work tirelessly to ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to pursue their tertiary education due to financial crisis.
“Our new government is the new hope to the financially struggling students, so these grants and loans will empower our young people to reach their full potential and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our economy.
“We want to create a future where every student can pursue their educational dreams without being shackled by financial burdens.
“Let’s work together and build a nation that invests in the dreams of its students,” he said.
Recently, a call was made by the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) to the government to reinstate student grants to make education affordable in the current harsh economic situation.
In a circular, ZINASU demanded student grants saying: “Thousands of potential graduates do not make it to University or College because they come from financially disadvantaged families.”
“On 23 August let’s #GoVote for the return of student grants,” the circular added.
Chamisa added that primary education will be free under his government and examination fees for Ordinary and Advanced levels will be catered for by the government.
“We have already done the calculations and we know that our government can offer free education to our students in primary schools.
“And for those in secondary education, there will just have to pay school fees and leave the examination fees in the hands of our new coming government which will undoubtedly pay for them,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chamisa is also expected to attend another rally in Chirumhanzu today as he gears up for the forthcoming general elections scheduled for August 23.
