Chimbetu school gets lifeline

Community News
Dendera musician Sulumani Chimbetu has come to the rescue of the Wicklow Simon Chimbetu Primary School, a learning institution that was once adopted by his father, Simon, in Chegutu.

Dendera musician Sulumani Chimbetu has come to the rescue of the Wicklow Simon Chimbetu Primary School, a learning institution that was once adopted by his father, Simon, in Chegutu.

REPORT BY TAWANDA MARWIZI

Speaking to Standardcommunity last week, Sulu, as he is popularly known by his legion of fans, said he had compiled an album and the proceeds from the sale would be channelled towards buying learning material such as books and furniture for the school.

He said the project was part of the Simon Chimbetu commemorations which are meant to remember the works of the legendary musician.

“We have compiled an album which contains some of my late father’s songs and we will be selling it and directing all the money to the school,” said Sulu. “After a day with school authorities and the parents, we have decided to start with buying books and some utilities for the school.”

The school, which was adopted by Simon in 1996, has nine teachers and over 500 pupils.

Most of the classroom blo-cks and toilets at the school have developed wide cracks, putting both teachers and the children at risk. Some of the pupils conduct their lessons under trees and on open spaces due to a shortage of classrooms.

“If all goes well, we will work with the community to have some buildings constructed because some of the existing blocks have developed dangerous cracks,” said Sulu. “We are going to work with the community in constructing some of the buildings at the school.”

The headmaster, Simon Muchechetere expressed gratitu-de for the offer from Sulu.

“His father used to take care of this school and he was the person responsible for a lot of things here,” he said.

On Friday, a fundraising dinner for the school was held in Harare. Senior Zanu PF officials including Vice-President Joice Mujuru and several other prominent personalities attended the fundraiser. It could not be established how much money was raised by the time of going to print.

The assistance given to the school is part of the commemorative gigs lined up around the country in honour of Simon Chimbetu.

The main event, which will feature several prominent musicians, is slated for today at Harare gardens.