Online learning platform Unicaf is scaling up its corporate social responsibility programmes following a recent donation of a wheelchair and groceries to Nyasha Machepa of Goromonzi.
Unicaf's country marketing manager Shimron Nyaude said his organisation partnered with Nedbank Zimbabwe and other well-wishers for the Goromonzi initiative.
“We are a brand that cares and beyond providing quality, affordable online education for all, we felt compelled to reach out to one Nyasha Machepa of Eastview in Goromonzi who we gathered has limited mobility and is unable to walk due to a condition affecting both of her legs,” he said.
“Additionally, she is non-verbal, but can communicate effectively using basic sign language.
“Seeing that Nyasha who stays with her parents has been using a teared wheelchair which made mobility difficult as she visits St Johns Emerald Hill for sign language support and assistance, we decided to chip in with a wheelchair donation as well as some food and non-food donations to help her situation.”
Nyaude said they were proud to bring joy to Nyasha who at 18 still has a whole world ahead of her and can achieve a lot with the right support.
“Corporate social responsibility initiatives must address challenges and bring positive change and we are happy to reach out to Nyasha in our own small way “ he said.
“As an organisation designed to empower all through affordable and quality education online, we hope this donation will help position Nyasha to access uplifting life opportunities, who knows maybe she will also enlist for our educational programmes in future.”
Nyade said Unicaf as an organisation boasts of a vibrant stance on key issues of alleviating the communities they operate in because they are the core of their existence.
“We are one with the community and our eyes and ears are open to any community challenges and limitations hence a deliberate investment in community empowerment initiatives, scholarships as well as charity donations like this one,” he said.
“We believe in benefiting the community for stronger brand and consistent messages across all the platforms.
“It’s our small way of communicating love and our high regard for our publics.”
Unicaf, which recently partnered with women led organisation Empowered Women with a view to provide affordable and flexible education to marginalised women has continued to explore ways through which it can empower locals.
“We are located in Cyprus, but we are deliberately expanding throughout Africa via a growing network of university campuses and learning centres to facilitate blended and open learning options,” he said.
“We have Unicaf University campuses in Malawi and Zambia, but our learning centres are operating in many other countries across Africa hence the presence in Zimbabwe.
Nyaude said corporate social responsibility and investment remains central to their existence and they will continue championing community-relevant programmes and initiatives.
“We believe in leaving no one and no place behind in our empowerment quest,” he said.
“Our unique model allows students to study online for internationally recognised degrees from top universities at a fraction of the cost.
“Furthermore, it aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable for students around the world.
“Its main objective is to provide quality education through online learning programs and scholarships, enabling individuals to pursue their academic goals and advance their careers.”
With various communities grappling with insurmountable challenges and limitations, Nyaude challenged other organisations and individuals to spare a thought for the marginalised.
