WRITING INTER-DISTRICTS LOADING, SAYS MHUMA By Meluleki Ncube @The Norton Times Zimbabwean schools could soon introduce competitions for learners showing aptitude in writing books, as a way of encouraging and motivating them. And Mashonaland West province is well-set to pioneer the idea. This was hinted on by Mashonaland West Provincial Education Director Gabriel Mhuma at a book launch function at Kaguvi Primary School in Chegutu. The move, which dovetails with the heritage-based education model being implemented for local schools, is a long overdue deficiency of the current cocktail which already includes sports and performing arts. PED Mhuma told the gathering that the province is always aiming to groom learners who will leave lasting legacies through practical skills, adding that the event was a true and befitting celebration of one such. "When I heard about this event, I told myself I had to be here without fail. I came straight from a family gathering in Gokwe", he said in showing how important he saw it. Hopefully, equal prioritisation will guide the mooted inter-district writing competitions in the province. In his address, Mhuma also spoke directly to the author, saying she had set the ball rolling on something big, and promising her a place in the provincial delegation to this year's International Literacy Day festivities. The day will be celebrated on 8 September. "My daughter, you have created a problem for some offices. Now, DSIs have to replicate this at their schools and districts. This will be your lasting legacy in the province", he said. It was indeed a unique Day of the African Child at a Kaguvi Primary School, where Jean Taanashe Botso was the star attraction. Although the Day, 16 June, was declared out of tragic circumstances, it is meant to inspire Africa's young people to confront all challenges with courage. Perhaps befittingly, on such a day, Botso, who joins the ranks of Zimbabwe's youngest authors, launched her two books, Who Am I? and The Exciting Story of Chipo The Bird. It was also another feather on the hat of Aleck Kaposa's Norton-based Essential Books Publishing Company (EBPC) stable, already home to NAMA winner Onald Gwiriri. He was ten too when he won in 2022. The well-organised and inspiring event was graced by some famous names in Zimbabwe's literary arts industry, among them authors Tinashe Muchuri, Christian Gumbeze and Chengetai Nyagumbo. The local community was well-represented too, with Chegutu Pirates FC head coach Moses Chunga, Chegutu Mayor Cllr Rydes Machekera and his junior council counterpart Cllr Piet Oberholzer also amongst the guests. WATCH THE PROCEEDINGS: https://youtu.be/QNeO9hyPuPc?si=wuqDKF3z0ATERF3c