Story by Fungai Jachi
THE government has intensified efforts to bridge Zimbabwe’s digital education divide through the National Presidential Computerisation Programme, a flagship initiative that seeks to equip learners with tools for e-learning and prepare them for participation in the global digital economy.
St Patrick’s High School in Chiwundura, Midlands Province, became the latest institution to benefit from the programme, receiving ICT gadgets this Saturday. Already, learners at the school have begun leveraging the new technology to develop innovations that are being adopted within the institution, a testament to the transformative potential of the initiative.
The programme is rooted in the Second Republic’s broader vision of inclusive development, where access to digital education is no longer regarded as a privilege but as a fundamental right for every learner, regardless of geographical location. This vision aligns with President Mnangagwa’s call for Zimbabwe to embrace science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of national development.
Mrs Petronella Masunungure, a Computer Science teacher at St Patrick’s, reflected on the immediate impact of the project, describing it as a catalyst for a more dynamic education system.
“It is impressive how these learners have embraced technology not only as a learning tool but as a key driver of development. They have already come up with innovations that are being adopted by the school, showing that this education system is going to shape this country’s future,” she said.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Honourable Torerai Moyo, who handed over ICT gadgets at St Patrick’s High School this Saturday, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring access to digital education.
“We can not run away from the fact that we are in the technological era, and equipping learners with such tools is critical if we are to give our learners quality education. The government, therefore, acknowledges private players who are coming into play to help the government provide quality education,” he noted.
The government is on a drive to ensure that no learner is left behind in the digital space despite their geographical location.
