A student in Zimbabwe who was able to go to university thanks to a project backed by Jesuit Missions wants to use her skills to help the Jesuits and the communities they support.
Tadiwanashe ‘Natasha’ Chakamhara is studying Accounting at the Africa University in Mutare after she received funding from the JOESA (Jesuit Opportunities in Education Southern Africa) programme.
Upon completing her degree, she hopes to collaborate with Jesuits in the region to assist with the work they do with local communities, including helping young people get into and stay in education.
“The financial assistance (JOESA) offered me has given me peace of mind. Without having to worry about my school fees, l am putting all my effort into my college work,” Natasha said.
“It is my hope that l will be able to assist other young learners to accomplish their studies because, were it not for the financial aid you are offering me, l would have not been where l am today. For that l am truly grateful.”
The Jesuits in Southern Africa work on a number of projects – from sanitation programmes to rehabilitation for street children.
Recently, Jesuit Missions has focused on education, supporting schemes that provide children in the region with access to transport and counselling, as well as helping their families with food, toiletry and medical packages.
“We regularly meet young adults who are extremely intelligent, capable and resourceful, but completely illiterate“
Fr Nigel Johnson SJ, Development Director of the Southern Africa Province, said: “Apart from feeding and clothing their children, parents have to find funds to send their children to school.
“Many fail to do this; indeed, many children have to go out working in the fields or on the city streets in order to supplement the family income.
“We regularly meet young adults who are extremely intelligent, capable and resourceful, but completely illiterate. If only they had managed to go to school, they would be able to earn a decent living, rise out of poverty and be able to support their extended family.”
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