HARARE - Gospel diva Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave has proved that her melodious voice is not the only thing that matters in her life but education is also important to her.

The songstress and mother-of-three yesterday graduated from the Women’s University in Africa with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology after three years of hard work.

At the graduation ceremony, Fungisai said she was happy to complete her studies.

“I am so excited to be a holder of a degree, I do not even know how to express my happiness,” she said.

The new graduate is proud of her hard work and has always looked forward to be holder of a degree.

She posted on her Facebook wall: “Today is a culmination of three years of hard work, three years of endurance and perseverance. Today is a fulfilment of a dream.”

Fungisai says this is only the beginning of her success as she is going to have more degrees to her name.

“May the name of the Lord be glorified. Today is graduation day with my first degree, many more (degrees) are to come,” she then completed her post with an expression from her yesteryear hit Nguva yekutenda.

“Yasvika zvino nguva yekutenda baba,” (The time has come to thank the God) she wrote.

The 31-year-old singer last year took mbira lessons. She has since been performing the traditional instrument on stage.

A number of local gospel musicians have been working on refining their education.

Self-taught musician Charles Charamba is currently studying for a Bachelors Degree in Jazz Music with the Zimbabwe College of Music. He acquired a National Certificate in Music last year with the same college.

Fungisai ventured into the competitive world of gospel music at a young age.

This year Fungisai has been working on her album which is ready for release.

The songstress has eight albums to her name including Zvirevo, Highway, Toita Zvedenga, Chandisimudza and others. - Kaleen Gombera