A renewed sense of pride and optimism swept through Dalny Mine Secondary School in Chakari, Mashonaland West, last Friday, as the institution unveiled a state-of-the-art science laboratory donated by Billnick Engineering — a subsidiary of Billnick Holdings.
The donation, made by the company’s Operations Director and proud alumnus, Mr. Samson Manyoni, marked a defining moment for the rural school, positioning it for enhanced participation in Zimbabwe’s national STEM education drive.
The unveiling took place during the school’s annual Prize Giving Day, attended by students, parents, community leaders, and corporate representatives.
“This laboratory is not just a building — it’s a seed of transformation,” said Mr. Manyoni, who delivered the keynote address.
“For too long, rural schools have been deprived of the infrastructure necessary for practical science education. This facility is a commitment to nurturing future engineers, scientists, and innovators who will shape Zimbabwe’s tomorrow.”
He emphasized that the donation reflected Billnick Engineering’s deep-rooted corporate values and its commitment to environmental and social responsibility. The laboratory, he said, was a strategic investment in human capital — the most valuable national resource.
“As a company, we believe that true sustainability begins with education,” he added.
“We must produce technically competent citizens whose integrity and work ethic are beyond reproach. Competence without character is dangerous; success without ethics is hollow.”
Mr. Manyoni, however, did not shy away from addressing the challenges facing the school. He expressed concern over the damage to the school’s perimeter wall caused by illegal artisanal mining activities, warning that such environmental degradation poses a real danger to students.
He called for a multi-stakeholder approach to protect educational institutions from these risks.
“Dalny Mine Secondary is more than a school — it is a community heritage site,” he said.
“We must all act to safeguard it from activities that threaten its future.”
Billnick Engineering’s Group Business Development Manager, Mr. Roy Eusen, applauded the company’s leadership for the gesture, linking it to Billnick’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
He urged other alumni to take inspiration from the initiative.
“This is a call to action for every former student,” Mr. Eusen said.
“We all share a piece of this school’s legacy. Let us rebuild, restore, and invest — because the next generation deserves better than what we found.”
School leadership welcomes a ‘game-changer’
Headmaster Mr. Donald Tarirah described the new laboratory as a “catalyst for academic excellence”, saying it will directly improve performance in science subjects.
“This facility will help us bridge the gap between theory and practice,” he noted.
“Our students can now conduct experiments, develop analytical skills, and compete with their peers from well-resourced schools across the country.”
Deputy Head Mr. Owen Sengeya echoed this sentiment, calling the laboratory “a symbol of educational equity.”
“For years, our learners have been limited to textbook learning. This donation changes everything. It gives our students a fair chance to explore, innovate, and apply science in real life,” he said.
A celebration of talent and heritage
The day concluded on a festive note, with electrifying performances from Vee Mhofu and Dziva ReMbira, who collaborated with the school’s traditional dance troupe in a spirited showcase of Zimbabwean culture.
As the final drumbeats echoed across the school grounds, the moment captured more than just celebration — it embodied hope.
From the words of the alumni to the rhythm of the drums, Dalny Mine Secondary School stood reborn — a beacon of resilience, community spirit, and renewed faith in the transformative power of education.
