A 21-year-old student from Bulawayo is appealing for financial assistance to pursue a medical degree at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), having overcome years of hardship and taught himself through Advanced Level studies.
Robin Tawananyasha Zvenyika, who lives in a small two-roomed cottage in Sauerstown with his mother and two siblings, has defied the odds to secure a place to study medicine, but now faces the daunting challenge of raising funds for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
“I cannot afford to pay for my tuition, accommodation, food, books and even clothing,” Zvenyika told CITE. “I am kindly asking those with willing hearts and whose financial circumstances can allow me to pursue my dream.”
Zvenyika, whose father abandoned the family when he was just three weeks old, said his mother has been the sole provider throughout his life. Despite limited resources, he consistently excelled in school, earning the respect of teachers and peers alike.
In 2023, he passed his O-Level examinations with nine As and one B, but was unable to collect his results or enrol for A-Level studies at a government school due to unpaid fees. Determined not to give up, Zvenyika briefly turned to gold panning in West Nicholson in a desperate attempt to raise money for his education.
“I spent a full month doing gold panning,” he said. “It was a terrible experience, not only was it physically demanding, but the environment was morally compromising.”
Returning home empty-handed, he chose to homeschool himself, relying on online resources, YouTube tutorials, and a second-hand desktop computer. With only two weeks of private lessons, he registered as a private candidate and wrote his A-Level examinations at East View College.
Despite not attending formal classes, he achieved 14 points, Chemistry A*, Physics A, and Pure Mathematics B, the highest among candidates at the college, according to Zvenyika.
His efforts earned him a place in the competitive medical programme at the University of Zimbabwe. However, the cost remains out of reach. Tuition fees are set at US$742, while on-campus accommodation costs US$780. Off-campus options cost around US$130 per month.
The deadline for payment is 31 July.
Zvenyika said he is aware that many Zimbabweans are struggling financially, but he hopes someone might be willing to assist him pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a doctor.
“I do not feel entitled to help,” he said. “But I present my case to those who may be willing to support me.”
Those wishing to assist can contact Zvenyika directly via phone on +263 788 130 232 or email zvenyikarobin@gmail.com.
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