In late May, Tariro walks home from a typical day in Form Two at Domboramwari High School and meets a boy who lives on the same road, named Rufaro. Rufaro, aged fifteen, attends ZRP High School and is preparing to write his O-levels. They strike up an interesting conversation on education.
Tari: “So, Rufaro, what subjects are you taking?”
Rufaro: “I’m writing English Language, English Literature, Maths, History, Geography, Business Studies, Economics, Shona, General Paper, Divinity, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science and Accounts. What about you Tari?”
Tari: “Wow! What a list! I am taking English Language, English Literature, Maths, History, Geography, Business Studies, Economics, Shona and General Paper. What are you going to do for A-levels?”
Rufaro: “You know Tari, I’m actually applying for a scholarship for my A-levels. I’ve even been told that if I do well, there’s an organization that will fund my tertiary education. I’m hoping to pursue Maths, Chemistry and Biology.”
Tari: “That’s awesome! Which organization is this Rufaro?”
Rufaro: “Higherlife Foundation, the scholarship is called the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship. They also determine whether I get the scholarship based on my talent as a student.”
Tari: “Really? I’m also on a scholarship from Higherlife Foundation called the Capernaum Scholarship. Tell me more about it!”
Rufaro: “Well, I heard about the scholarship from my head master, who said he would like to nominate and recommend me for the scholarship.”
Tari: “Woah, you must be a star student at school. What clubs are you involved in?”
Rufaro: “I love being involved in the school. I hope to run for Head Boy when I’m in Upper Six! I’m the captain of the boys’ soccer team and the head of both the debate team and young leaders club.”
Tari: “That definitely makes you a talented student and a leader. What does the scholarship offer?”
Rufaro: “Well, if I am accepted, after submitting my application and attending an interview, then the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship offers full coverage of my tuition for Lower & Upper Six as well as access to training and mentorship programs including spiritual mentorship targeting the body, soul and spirit. And if I do well in my A-levels; they will fund my first tertiary degree!
Tari: “This is awesome! I wish you the very best in your O-level exams Rufaro, these results could change your life completely! What if your parents can already afford the school and university fees?”
Rufaro: “Well fortunately, the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship is not need-based at all, it is solely based on your academic excellence, talent and school leadership.”
Tari: “I wish more people knew about this scholarship, I know so many excelling and gifted students who could really benefit from applying for this scholarship. Where can you apply?”
Rufaro: “You can apply online on the Higherlife Foundation website, be sure to check the application deadlines. Here, Tari, take this flyer and give it to anyone you think should apply who is writing their O-levels this year. I’ve got to go, see you another time, it was great speaking to you. I’m glad we’re both a part of the Foundation, I can see the Capernaum Scholarship is doing great things for you.”
Tari: “Thanks Rufaro, I will pass it on. Good to see you too, and I hope you get the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship!”
-To be continued-
Have you seen the recently published list of successful candidates for the Joshua Nkomo Scholarship? Do you know an academically excelling student who would be eligible for this scholarship? Have you advertised the scholarship to your co-workers, friends or fellow community members? Be the person who adds another “Joshualite” (Joshua Nkomo Scholar) to the world!
