PROGRESSIVE Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) Matabeleland North has introduced a medical fund to help children in need of urgent medical attention.
Melody Chimhau Own Correspondent
Hwange Children’s Medical Fund was inspired by 12-year-old Lwendulu Primary School pupil Hillary Nyathi’s situation, who has a heart problem which prevents him from attending school.
Young Hilary has to travel to India for an operation.
PTUZ Matabeleland North co-co-ordinator Never Nyaunzvi, who is acting as vice-secretary of the fund, told Southern Eye in a telephone interview that the idea was mooted by Hwange residents.
“Nurses, headmasters, teachers, colliery workers and councillors came up with the idea of introducing the Hwange Children’s Medical Fund which is meant to benefit every child from different backgrounds,” he said.
“The residents have been co-operating and we have managed to raise $12 209 for Hillary through an organised march and civvies day.”
The march, which took place on January 17, saw members from the Primary and Secondary Education ministry, Zimbabwe Teachers’ Association, Hwange Colliery Company Schools Development Board and the community, taking part, while the civvies day was organised for all schools in Hwange.
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“A trust fund has been set up as part of fundraising efforts and education sectors held a civvies day in order to raise the much-needed funds for Hillary’s surgery,” Nyaunzvi said.
Although the trust fund has managed to raise $12 209 for medical expenses, they are yet to raise money for travel, accommodation and passport expenses.
Nyaunzvi said the trust fund is working with the Hwange District Office to secure a passport for both Hillary and his father to travel to India.
“The fund hopes to attract more sponsors and continue helping children in future.”
