Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
ZIMBABWE’S digital transformation has gained momentum with the Presidential Internet Programme bringing digital learning within the reach of students in rural communities.
A 115-year journey into the future, St George’s Muchena Primary School in rural Mutasa District has stepped into the digital age, thanks to a donation of computers, Starlink internet kits and other accessories under the Presidential Internet Programme.
Founded in 1910, the school has seen generations pass through its classrooms, but never before with access to global information until this digital leap that has seen many of the pupils using computer for the first time.
“We are excited that we are accessing computers for the first time in our history. This will transform our learning environment,” said a pupil.
“It is like a dream that we now have computers at our school. We appreciate what the President and government have done in improving access to connectivity,” noted another.
For government officials, the small rural school stepping into the digital age is proof that the Second Republic is determined to promote inclusive development.
“In this constituency, there are 23 primary schools and 24 secondary schools. These schools are largely in farming communities, and were in poor state. Most of these schools have been upgraded, and we now have five schools that have benefited from the Presidential Internet Scheme. We want to thank President Mnangagwa for these developments,” said Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza.
The Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera weighed in, “For 115 years the school had no computers. Through the support from President Mnangagwa, today we have brought computers, a star link set, a whiteboard and projector, and a printer. The presidential internet scheme is benefiting all places.”
For a rural school built over a century ago, the future has finally arrived, one click at a time.
