Gweru community bids farewell to longtime serving ECD trainer

Dumisani Ndlovu
GWERU- A wave of gratitude swept through Gweru recently as the community gathered to celebrate the distinguished career of Melody Dube, affectionately known as Gogo Mello, a retiring Early Childhood Development (ECD) trainer from the Ministry of Education and Secondary Education.
After 38 years of dedicated service shaping young minds, Dube was honored with a vibrant and well-attended farewell ceremony.
The event, a testament to Dube's profound impact, drew prominent figures from education, arts, and community development. Speakers lauded her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to early childhood education, recognizing her as a pillar of strength, a foundational figure, and a cornerstone of ECD in Gweru and the wider Midlands Province.
“We are gathered here today to celebrate the selfless contributions of Mrs Dube, an exceptional ECD trainer who has left an indelible mark on our education system,” remarked Chrispen Lunga, Gweru District Schools Inspector.
“Her 38 years of service are a shining example of dedication, passion, and commitment to early childhood education. Her ability to connect with young children and empower them with essential life skills is a rare gift,” he said.
Genesis Early Learning Centre founder, Ivenne Chikohora echoed Inspector Lunga's sentiments, adding, Mrs Dube has been more than just a trainer to us; she has been a mentor, a friend, and a shining example of what it means to serve with love and compassion,” she said.
Mtapa’s Sushine ECD founder, Simangaliso Ncube said “Her departure leaves a void in our lives, but we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will live on through the countless lives she has touched,” said Ncube.
The veteran Educationist's influence extends beyond her official role. She collaborated with the late Mrs. Sekenhamho, founder of Mickey Mouse Centre (fondly known as Granny Mupuriri), in the early 1980s, training a generation of Early Childhood Education teachers.
Francisca Sekenhamho, the current Director of Mickey Mouse Centre, shared a touching personal anecdote.
“Mrs Dube is a humble and encouraging woman who comforted me and my family during our darkest hour. When my mother, Granny Mupuriri, passed away, Gogo Mello was there to offer words of comfort and support. Her kindness and empathy mean the world to me,”
In her heartfelt response, Melody Dube expressed her profound gratitude to the Gweru community for their unwavering support and appreciation.
“I am overwhelmed with emotion as I stand before you today. Your kind words and gestures have warmed my heart, and I am humbled by the recognition. I will cherish the memories and lessons learned during my 38 years of service, and I have no doubt that the ECD academies will continue to thrive and flourish,” said the ever smiling Dube.
As a token of collective appreciation, the pre-school community presented Gogo Mello with a CAPRI Water Dispenser Fridge, a stylish and functional appliance to enhance her home.
While the Gweru community will undoubtedly miss Melody Dube's presence, her impact on the lives of young learners and the dedication she demonstrated to the field of early childhood development will be felt for generations to come. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to educators and a testament to the power of dedication and compassion in shaping the future.