By Dumisani Ndlovu
GWERU — The education sector has been plunged into mourning following the death of Mkoba Teachers College Principal, Dr Rosina Mavunga, who passed away on Tuesday after falling ill during a Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education strategic review workshop in Masvingo.
Dr Mavunga died at a private hospital in Masvingo.
She was widely regarded as a dedicated educationist whose leadership and commitment to Heritage-Based Education 5.0 contributed significantly to teacher training and institutional development in Zimbabwe.
Mkoba Teachers College confirmed her death in a statement, describing her as a visionary and compassionate leader who devoted her life to the education sector.
“The family of Mkoba Teachers College is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Dr R. Mavunga, our esteemed Principal,” the college said. “A great leader, distinguished humanist, strategist, mentor, educator and friend.”
The institution noted that her professionalism, integrity and commitment set a high standard for staff and students, while her kindness and wisdom touched countless lives.
“Her kindness, wisdom and passion for education transformed Mkoba Teachers College into a place of hope, excellence and opportunity,” the statement continued. “As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her extraordinary life and the lasting impact she has made on our college, our community and the nation.”
Tributes have poured in from across the education and public sectors, with Marymount Teachers’ College Principal Martin Mukwazhu expressing shock at her death.
He described Dr Mavunga as an inspirational leader who played a key role in driving the implementation of Education 5.0.
“I am at a loss for words to describe what I am feeling right now. Her passing came as a shock to me, and I am still trying to comprehend what happened,” Mukwazhu said.
“The academic sector has lost a source of inspiration, a leader and a goal-getter who was fiercely driving Education 5.0 at Mkoba Teachers College. May her soul rest in peace.”
Public Service Commission Midlands Provincial Coordinator Andrew Chimanyiwa also expressed his condolences, describing her death as a devastating loss to the province and the nation.
“This is indeed a great loss for us in the Midlands Province and the country,” he said.
Dr Mavunga was appointed principal of Mkoba Teachers College in October 2023, having previously served as vice-principal of the United College of Education in Bulawayo.
More details to follow.…
