A total of 56 students graduated from the Purple Apex Learn Institute of Marketing, Design, Digital Media and Creativity during its 2026 Graduation Ceremony held in Harare last Friday, marking a significant milestone for the fast-growing institution.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Institute’s Director, Mr Mugenge Batsi Ndawana, shared his inspiring journey and expressed gratitude to both students and parents for their support.

“This is our first Graduation Ceremony since we opened this Institute. I need to thank the parents and students for all their support. Fifty-six graduates is not simple it is a sign that the Institute is growing,” said Director Ndawana.

Director of Purple Apex Learn Institute Mugenge Batsi Ndawana

He highlighted that the institution is guided by the principles of Education 5.0, which focuses on equipping students with practical skills for self-reliance and innovation.

“Purple Apex Institute is capable for all, with the theme Education 5.0, whereby students must learn things that they will be able to use to do their own projects,” he said.

Director Ndawana also encouraged parents to invest in skills-based education that prepares young people for real-life opportunities.

“I encourage parents to continue making their efforts by bringing their children to such institutes, so that they may be taught things that will help them in their lifetime,” he added.

Emphasising inclusivity, he noted that the institution does not require traditional academic qualifications for entry.

“Purple Apex Learn Institute does not need O Level or A Level. Bring your children and we will start from the beginning until he or she improves,” he said.

One of the graduates, Tashinga Nyabasa, expressed appreciation for the transformation he experienced during his time at the institute.

“I came here without knowledge, but now I’m one of the best. Before I came here, I thought social media was just for chatting and entertainment, but now I have learned that through social media I can make money,” he said.

The Purple Apex Learn Institute focuses on digital education, offering training in computer literacy, social media monetisation, marketing, web design, graphic design, and modern technology skills.

The institution aims to empower students with practical knowledge that enables them to create employment opportunities and thrive in the digital economy.

The graduation ceremony not only celebrated academic achievement but also highlighted the growing importance of skills-based education in Zimbabwe’s evolving economic landscape.

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Tapiwa Mhona, this afternoon officially commissioned the newly constructed Manyame River Bridge along the Harare–Masvingo–Beitbridge Road.

He was joined by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Province, Honourable Itayi Ndudzo, during the ceremony.

The new bridge is part of the North-South Corridor, a key trade route that links Zimbabwe to the rest of the continent. The project is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve road safety, and enhance cross-border trade.

Speaking at the event, Minister Mhona expressed appreciation to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for prioritising infrastructure development.

“Such projects are central to enhancing national and regional connectivity,” he said, highlighting the importance of modern transport networks in driving economic growth.

Mhona also announced upcoming developments, confirming that work on the Harare Chirundu Road, as well as the upgrading of the Chirundu Border Post, will begin in September.

“These projects will further strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a key gateway to regional markets within SADC,” he said.

The event was attended by Permanent Secretary Eng. J.P. Makumbe, heads of parastatals under the Ministry, and other senior government officials.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has stepped up its crackdown on illegal transport operators, commonly known as “mushikashikas,” following a recent rise in hit-and-run accidents across the country.

The operation is part of a nationwide effort to restore order, improve road safety, and bring offenders to justice.

“Over the past two weeks, we have impounded more than 200 vehicles, including commuter omnibuses (kombis) and private cars.

The exercise targets unregistered and non-compliant operators who are often linked to reckless driving and traffic violations,” the  Police said.

A key feature of the operation is the detailed inspection of every impounded vehicle. Authorities are carefully examining cars for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or impact marks.

Drivers and vehicle owners are now required to give clear explanations for any visible damage found during these checks.

This approach is aimed at helping investigators connect specific vehicles to unresolved traffic crimes, particularly hit-and-run cases that have left victims without justice. By using this method, the police hope to identify those responsible and hold them accountable.

The crackdown comes amid growing public concern over the behaviour of “mushikashika” operators.

These illegal transporters are often associated with dangerous practices such as speeding, overloading passengers, and ignoring traffic laws. Many also avoid official checkpoints, making it difficult for authorities to monitor their activities.

“The ongoing operation focuses on enforcing compliance with basic legal requirements.

Vehicles are being impounded for offences such as lack of proper licensing, valid fitness certificates, and insurance,” the police said.

Through this process, law enforcement is working to remove unroadworthy vehicles and identify those involved in criminal activities.

“Members of the public use registered transport services and to report reckless drivers.

The operation will continue until order and discipline are fully restored on Zimbabwe’s roads,” the police added.