Tanaka Mahanya
A CHITUNGWIZA woman, who suffers from osteogenesis imperfecta is now pursuing her dreams to become an Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher.
She has enrolled at Nyadire Teachers’ College.
Chipo Kurunzirwa’s studies are being bankrolled by some organisations and individuals who donated money to cover her college fees.
So far, half of the fees have been paid.
Osteogenesis imperfecta, colloquially known as brittle bone disease, is a group of genetic disorders that all result in bones that break easily.
The 37-year-old said this was the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
“I was born disabled, when I completed my Ordinary Level studies in 2004, I knew I wanted to pursue teaching,” she told H-Metro.
“I failed Mathematics and this stopped me from pursuing my dream but this year I passed and decided to give it a shot.”
She said her school fees have not been paid in full.
“Half of my school fees have been paid for this term and I am asking well-wishers to assist so that I can finish the course.
“My wish is to graduate and impact lives through teaching.
“I would appreciate those who will assist me achieve my dream.”
Some of the organisations, which contributed towards her fees, are Deaf Zimbabwe Trust and Hope Resurrect Trust.
Deaf Zimbabwe Trust media and communications officer, Lloyd Mangoh, said they will continue raising funds to ensure that she finishes her diploma.
“We are happy to announce that, as someone with a disability and passionate about educating children, Chipo has taken a huge step in achieving her dream.
“We hope donations will continue to come through, since this is a three-year programme.
“Hopefully, we will find someone who is willing to cater for her fees during her stay at the college,” he said.