Story by Fungai Jachi
THE government has handed over Starlink satellite internet kits to 35 Junior Parliamentarians in Masvingo Province as part of efforts to enhance learners’ access to global knowledge and digital resources.
The initiative is also expected to position the junior legislators as ambassadors of digital transformation in their schools and communities.
As digital connectivity becomes increasingly essential in modern education, authorities say the programme reflects government’s commitment to narrowing the digital divide through the provision of relevant technologies.
Junior Parliamentarians in the province welcomed the development, saying it will improve their learning and awareness of global issues affecting children.
“We are really grateful for these kits that will help us stay connected. We now live in a connected world and it is important that we understand what is happening globally in terms of children’s rights,” said one of the Junior MPs.
“It shows government’s commitment to ensuring that as learners we have the necessary tools for learning, and for that we are grateful,” added another.
A third junior legislator pledged responsible use of the technology, saying learners would use the internet productively.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, said the programme demonstrates Government’s drive to promote digital inclusion.
“This gesture is more than just the distribution of equipment; it is a powerful symbol of our commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering the next generation of leaders. My office intends to roll out this initiative across the province to create a technologically savvy generation in line with Vision 2030,” said Honourable Chadzamira.
Government is rolling out various initiatives under the National Development Strategy 2 and the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan to improve digital connectivity and inclusion, particularly for learners in underserved areas.
The programmes are designed to expand access to the internet, education and digital skills training, helping to close the gap between rural and urban communities.
