The Forum for African Women Educationalists in Zimbabwe (FAWEZI), with support from FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation under the FAWE/Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme, successfully convened Provincial and National Selection Committees as part of the countrywide TVET bursary selection process, ensuring fairness, accountability, and inclusivity for marginalized young women and men across Zimbabwe.

The process began with a one-month nationwide call for applications in October 2025, with submissions collected through Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) offices, online platforms, and targeted outreach to vulnerable communities including Tongogara Refugee Camp, Leonard Cheshire Disability Zimbabwe (LCDZ), and CAMFED-supported beneficiaries. A total of 4,564 applications were received, of which 3,689 met the eligibility criteria after pre-screening and were entered into a master database where automated scoring and vulnerability rankings were applied.

FAWEZI first convened Provincial Selection Committees, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Department of Social Development, selected TVET institutions (Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, Kwekwe Polytechnics), Belvedere Technical Teachers College, and FAWEZI. These committees conducted thorough reviews of applications using a selection matrix, and successfully shortlisted 400 candidates based on need, potential, and alignment with programme criteria.

Following this, the National Selection Committee convened to review the shortlisted applications and identify the final 200 candidates for verification. This committee ensured consistency, fairness, and full compliance with the programme’s principles.

Home visits were conducted for the shortlisted applicants to verify eligibility, confirm socio-economic circumstances, and ensure integrity in the selection process. This step reinforced accountability and transparency, giving communities confidence in the process.

Through these completed activities, FAWEZI demonstrates a rigorous, accountable, and participatory selection process, reinforcing its commitment to equitable access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training. These efforts continue to empower marginalized young women and men, to gain skills, enhance livelihoods, and actively contribute to their communities.