Graduation planned in Gweru, Zimbabwe
JULY 2026 NARRATIVE REPORT
Introduction
This report presents an overview of activities at Bear Valley Bible Institute Zimbabwe (BVBIZ) during July 2026. It covers academic progress, student reflections, ongoing practicum work, income-generating projects, recent donations, and updates on the school's truck fund. The report also looks ahead to the school's upcoming graduation ceremony and tenth-anniversary celebrations. Through this update, BVBIZ hopes to keep its partners, supporters, and friends informed of the school's continued growth and the impact of their ongoing support.
1.0 Term Ends
The 2026–2028 class successfully completed its first term at BVBIZ on a high note, concluding with examinations. During the term, students studied the following subjects: How We Got the Bible, Christian Evidences, Personal Work, New Testament Church, Old Testament Law, English and Writing Skills, Scheme of Redemption, Public Speaking, Life of Christ, and Introduction to Horticulture. The school also hosted a workshop on poultry and goat production, facilitated by the One Cock Project.
2.0 Feedback from Students
As has become customary, the term's studies were intense and rigorous. On the final day of the term, students were asked to reflect on their first three months at BVBIZ. Below are some of their responses
Decent Maheu: My studies at BVBIZ have been deeply rewarding, they stretched my understanding of scripture and straightened my commitment. Through intense classes, practical evangelism and brotherly fellowship, I have grown spiritually and academically. The school has equipped me with life survival skills in horticulture, goat and poultry production.
Tanatswa Chipunza: I am grateful for the opportunity to study at BVBIZ. We are learning under good conditions. We appreciate the support from the school leadership. We pray for blessings from God upon them as they continue to quip us with knowledge and life skills.
Trust Jack: I would like to thank the school staff for love and effort. They have made me a good person as I put into practice what they were teaching me even as I continue to look forward to the next term.
Phineas Mudenda: The term was good. I found the studies very interesting although it was a little hard for me to cope with the level of learning and intensity. I also loved manual work, working in the garden and lessons on life survival skills being taught. The accommodation, food and staff are all good. I need to prepare myself more for the coming term.
Brian Chabaya: I had a wonderful and growth filed term. I was deeply encouraged by the Biblical teaching and dedicated lecturers. I am truly grateful for the experience and training I received this term.
Brian Chikonamombe: I would like to thank BVBIZ staff for the term we just had. During the term, I learnt a lot of subjects which will help me for the rest of my life especially in agriculture and preaching. I am looking forward to another term so that I continue to learn more.
Tanya Mpepo: I would like to thank God for the opportunity that God gave me to study at BVBIZ. For just one term, I have been transformed and I would like to pass my gratitude to the teachers even as I look forward to further transformation in the coming term.
Karoro and Vivian Banda: Our studies at BVBIZ have strengthened our faith, deepened our understanding of God’s word and transformed us into a more Christ like centered couple. Through sound Biblical teaching, we have grown spiritually, improved our relationship and become better equipped to serve God and his church. The knowledge and practical lessons have inspired us to live with greater love, humility and commitment to Christian service. Studying together has also united us in purpose encouraging us to support one another in ministry and daily Christian living. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to study at BVBIZ.
3.0 LIFE SURVIVAL SKILLS TRAINING CONTINUES
Students took part in a life-changing poultry and goat production workshop held on the 15th and 16th of July. The workshop was facilitated by Tatenda Tizora of the One Cock Project organisation, who delivered the lessons passionately and imparted valuable skills to the students. Four members of the community also attended. The training combined both theory and practical sessions, with a strong emphasis on how students can support their ministry through such projects. Each participant received a certificate of participation at the end of the second day.
4.0 PRACTICUM CONTINUES
The 2024-2026 class is still in the field doing the third phase of their structured practicum. Some of the students moved to new areas on the 12th of July. These new areas include Chiware, Beitbridge and Deure in Jerera, Masvingo. In July students visited hospitals, preached at school assemblies, preached at Police parades, visited members’ homes, did door to door evangelism, preached and taught in churches among many activities. According to the statistics gathered from the students’ reports, the following transpired in the field;
5.0 PROJECTS
5.1 Goats and cattle
Projects have remained a key feature in the school’s operations. The cattle herd remains at 7 while goats are 12. The goat herd has not increased much as the school continues to slaughter some in order to provide meat for students. The cattle herd needs a bull for it to increase. Small bulls cost around $500.
5.2 POULTRY
The school reintroduced its broiler project after a few months’ hiatus. The project started with 100 birds in early July. The batch is doing well. The school also increased its roadrunner (free-range chicken) stock with 33 more chicks. These are doing well. Besides improving nutrition for our students, excess free-range chickens will be sold in an effort to supplement the school’s income.
5.3 GARDENING
There has been a lot of activity in the school’s garden. The school has cabbages, broccoli, onions, peas and tomatoes. The tomato crop in the greenhouse is nearing the end of its life and as a result, land is being prepared to plant 4000 tomato plants outside the greenhouse. The garden has been key in the provision of food and life survival skills to our students.
6.0 DONATIONS
6.1 Banana and Pineapple Plants
In May, we received oranges, naartjies, and lemons from Brother Fortune Mbofana of Rusitu Valley for students and staff, along with three banana plants. Last month, he sent additional banana and pineapple plants to help diversify BVBIZ's projects. These have since been planted and are showing signs of life. BVBIZ remains grateful for this generous gesture.
6.2 Pump
Water pressure has always been a challenge in our garden. The school's borehole, located in the garden, has a strong water yield, but the small pump installed in it has limited its use. In response to this challenge, Brother Mike Chivinge donated his 1.5 horsepower submersible pump. Once installed, the school will be able to expand the garden and even venture into fish farming.
6.3 Ablution Block
The school's pit latrine, commonly known locally as the “Blair toilet,” needed significant improvements, including the installation of a water system. Three board members stepped forward to make a difference by contributing various amounts: Brothers Mike Chivinge ($150), Fannie Maraidza ($100), and Sajeni Nyakadzumbu ($100).
7.0 UPCOMING GRADUATION AND TENTH ANNIVERSARY
BVBIZ warmly invites all stakeholders, church leaders, church members, and the friends and family of the 2024–2026 class to its 5th graduation ceremony, scheduled for the 17th of October 2026. The ceremony will be held on the school's campus.
Further, the year 2026 marks ten years since the school's founding a significant milestone well worth celebrating. During the occasion, the school will honour those who have played a part in bringing it to where it is today. All partners, funders, BVBIZ alumni, community members, past and present board members, past and present staff, and organizations are invited to attend the celebration, which will take place on the 16th of October at 1400 hours.
CONCLUSION
July 2026 was a month marked by steady progress across every area of BVBIZ's work — from the successful completion of the term's academic studies and hands-on practicum ministry in the field, to continued growth in the school's farming and gardening projects. The generosity of donors continues to strengthen the school's facilities and sustainability, while the truck fund moves gradually closer to its goal. As BVBIZ prepares to celebrate ten years of service and welcome a new graduating class, the school remains deeply grateful for the prayers, partnership, and support of all who make this work possible.