Beaven Dhliwayo Group Features Editor
IN A HEARTFELT gesture aimed at enhancing educational opportunities, businessman Brighton Masilo donated 11 laptops to his former secondary school, Matara Christian High School in Zaka, Masvingo Province.
Speaking during a handover ceremony of the laptops at the school, Masilo, a member of the Lawyers for Economic Development (Lawyers for ED), emphasised the importance of technology in modern education.
“Our president is on record saying we must leave no place behind. The place was behind in terms of technology, and with the launching of Star link, it’s now easier for them to access the internet in rural areas.”
He underscored the dual need for technology and connectivity saying “Starlink without them having gadgets to use won’t make sense”.
So, we started with 11 laptop—10 directly donated to the school and one to the headmaster, Allen Raisi who played a pivotal role in my education. “I thought now that we are here, we should also do something for him,” he said.
In addition to the laptop donation, Masilo and his wife, Esther who are pastors at I Am Fellowship International through their Siloton Foundation, have been paying school fees for over 20 students at the school. “The foundation is just a vehicle we created to give back to the community. We are pastors as well,” Masilo added.
“The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. “The feedback has been amazing. People have been sending messages saying this is a good move, and many are eager to partner in their own ways.”
“The need was the motivation. When you see 14 students surrounding a single laptop trying to learn, you know some aren’t going to benefit.” He stressed that love was also a driving force behind his efforts.
“Let love lead. If we are motivated by love, we cannot change the whole world at once, but those little steps count.” Looking ahead, Masilo and his foundation aim to procure a school bus to facilitate transport for students.
“It’s a big move, but we are just little guys trying to do something,” he explained as he encouraged others to contribute to their communities.
“We saw joy, tears of joy because people felt remembered and their lives changed. Love must be the driving force. “People interpret deeds more than your words. “We are not leaving anyone behind. We are starting with the rural areas.