Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring access to Information Communication Technology (ICT) for both rural and urban schools saying no one and no place will be left behind.
He said this while addressing more than 3 000 children and teachers who gathered at Nyamuroro High School in Gokwe for the 45th Children’s Independence Party.
“This year’s Independence Day Celebration’s theme, “Zimbabwe at 45: Devolve and Develop together towards Vision 2030” must remind you, our children that as government and your elders, we want you to have equal development, opportunities and access to ICTs, Zimbabwe is one, for all, whether you live in rural or urban areas,” the President said.
“In the education sector, government is engaging various stakeholders to guarantee the provision of quality education that is affordable to all children as well as the promotion of learning skills to make our learners ready for the world of the future. The construction of modern classroom blocks, training of teachers and availing of learning materials, makes sure that no child is left behind.”
The Head of State reiterated that the heritage-based education curriculum seeks to address the needs of the 21st century economy.
“This demands a robust education system that produces graduates with the right characteristics that enable them to be competitive in the global environment. Building from a skills-oriented curriculum framework, my government has put in place the required changes for our children. You acquire scientific, innovative, vocational and technical skills that empower them to develop enterprises and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic transformation.
“My Administration is prioritising an e-teaching and e-learning policy within our schools. To make sure that this runs smoothly, electricity, internet connectivity and related ICT equipment to schools, including those in marginalised communities, is being provided.”
President Mnangagwa urged the school children to shun drug and substance abuse as well as social media excesses.
“Let us join hands to fight substance and drug abuse, a moral cancer affecting mostly young boys and girls. The peddling of drugs, as well as the abuse of social media platforms, should be rejected by our children and the youth throughout the country. Say no to drugs and harmful substances. Say no to cyberbullying. On our part as government, we are implementing programmes that focus on increasing youth participation in development and decision-making process,” he said.
Earlier on, President Mnangagwa commissioned legacy projects at the school which include the Presidential Internet Programme made up of a computer laboratory, a total of 2 000 Starlink kits and laptops which will be distributed to government departments, schools, and traditional leaders.
The Head of State together with the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa planted mahogany trees at the school’s orchard, while Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga followed suit.
A strategic business unit was also commissioned and it comprises two solar-powered boreholes, 10 000-litre water tanks, a drip-irrigated one-hectare garden, and a poultry project, all aimed at promoting food security and sustainable rural development.
