Lesedi’s Remarkable Milestone in Rural Zimbabwe

By Cayman Bentley, PVF Social Media Manager

At PVF, we are continually inspired by the work of our fiscally sponsored partners. This month, we are proud to highlight the extraordinary progress of Lesedi, whose commitment to expanding access to quality education in rural Zimbabwe is transforming lives in measurable and deeply personal ways. What began 11 years ago as a single preschool hut in the Ntabayengwe community has grown into a $1.5 million educational and health campus. Today, Lesedi encompasses primary and secondary schools, a medical clinic, and vocational facilities — serving as both an academic hub and a community anchor.

Recently, Lesedi reached a powerful milestone. In November, their first cohort of secondary students sat for Zimbabwe’s Ordinary Level (O-level) exams, which mark the completion of compulsory secondary education. With the 2025 national pass rate at 35.26%, Lesedi Secondary School achieved a 50% pass rate. In a rural district where neighboring government schools are reportedly seeing pass rates as low as 0%, this achievement speaks volumes about the quality of instruction, the dedication of teachers, and the strength of community support behind the school.

Behind every data point is a story of resilience and opportunity.

Sibonokuhle once struggled academically before transferring to Lesedi Primary School and repeating a grade to rebuild her foundation. With encouragement and steady support, she found her focus and has become a standout student. Her grandmother — who generously offered part of her land for the construction of Lesedi Primary — embodies the deep community trust that underpins the school’s success.

Allan, another graduate, is the first in his family to complete O-levels, passing six subjects. His father developed metal fabrication skills while working on Lesedi’s early construction projects, creating a source of income that now helps pay school fees. Allan has since begun volunteering with Green Haven, a youth-led organization focused on community development and environmental sustainability.

These stories reflect a broader ripple effect — where education strengthens families, builds skills, and nurtures local leadership.

Lesedi’s results reflect more than academic performance. They represent years of trust-building within the community, partnership with families, and sustained donor support that has enabled steady, intentional growth. Now, as students celebrate their O-level results, a new question emerges: what comes next?

To help high-achieving students continue their studies, Lesedi is establishing a Further Education Fund. The goal is to support select students in pursuing A-level coursework — a two-year advanced program that serves as a gateway to university degrees and other tertiary qualifications. The estimated cost per student ranges from $2,000–$3,000, depending on transportation needs. The initiative is being developed thoughtfully, with shared responsibility between families and the school, ensuring that support is both impactful and sustainable.

Lesedi’s journey — from a single hut to a thriving campus — demonstrates what is possible when vision, community partnership, and sustained support align. We are honored to support and spotlight the remarkable work they are doing to expand access to education and opportunity in rural Zimbabwe. Their recent milestone is not just a statistic — it is a testament to what long-term investment in children and communities can achieve.

Lesedi’s impact extends beyond academics. To learn more about their work, you can visit their website at https://lesedizim.org/.