By Panashe Gwesu
At just 20 years old, Ravu Donemore has already proven himself to be one of the country’s brightest minds.
The former St. Rupert Secondary School student emerged as the top performer in the November ZIMSEC examinations, earning an impressive 14 points at Advanced Level.
But despite his academic success, his dream of studying Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is now at risk—blocked by financial challenges.
For many high-achieving students, strong exam results open the door to a promising future.
But for him, the reality is starkly different, born into a family of six in Chidodo, Mbire District—deep in the Zambezi Valley—his parents depend on small-scale farming and self-help projects, making it nearly impossible for them to afford his university education.
“We survive by hand to mouth mode, so I need someone who can help me with at least a scholarship to pursue my studies and fulfill my dream so that I can relieve my family,” Ravu said
His journey has been anything but easy. He completed his O-Level studies at Chidodo Secondary School in 2022, securing top marks that allowed him to advance to A-Level.
There, he excelled in Business Studies (A), Pure Mathematics (A), and Economics (B).
But the financial burden remains heavy, while a benefactor supported him throughout high school, that assistance ended after Form 6 due to financial difficulties.
Now, Ravu finds himself at a crossroads, unable to afford tuition fees for his desired degree in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Computer Science.
“My parents really want me to go to school, but they are surviving by doing some self-help projects, specializing in small farming. They are no longer able to support my education,” he explained.
Despite his struggles—sometimes going without food, soap, and basic necessities—he remained determined and excelled as a day scholar.
His ambition goes beyond personal success, given the opportunity to study, Ravu says he hopes to give back.
“If I can manage to study my career, when I get a job, I wish to help some other fellow students who have the same scenario as me,” he said.
The gifted student remains hopeful that a scholarship or financial assistance will come his way, allowing him to turn his academic brilliance into a career that not only changes his life but also helps uplift others.
