Maranatha Adventist High School in Bulawayo’s Nketa suburb has commissioned a US$16 000 water purification plant, dubbed “Jacob’s Well,” to provide certified safe drinking water for both the school and the surrounding community.
Headmaster Khulekani Hindoga said the plant was an income-generating project with a production capacity of 5 000 litres per day.
“Objectives are to sell purified water to the community and beyond, and train students in plant operation and water management business,” Hindoga said.
He noted that the school is targeting neighbouring schools, Nketa suburbs’ 6 000 households, the local business community, and higher organisations.
“Our budget summary results are favourable, meaning Jacob’s Well will be a viable project yielding high returns,” he added.
Ward 24 councillor Tavengwa Zidya welcomed the initiative and promised to market the product in the community.
Seventh-day Adventist South Zimbabwe Conference president Jefrety Sibanda said being progressive is an Adventist signature.
“I know you will have competitors, but you are the first to do it. We celebrate those who have started something — that is the trademark of Adventism,” Sibanda said.
He described Jacob’s Well as a meeting point and an extension of salvation.
“You are building a centre of influence. Just one well will influence many,” Sibanda added.
Acting district schools Inspector Joyce Mambayo said the project aligns with the heritage-based curriculum, which emphasises equipping students with practical skills for the future.