Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to improving primary schools in farming communities, with plans to ensure they attain examination centre status and reduce the distances learners travel to sit for public examinations.
The drive received a boost in Guruve District following the handover of laptops, digital learning tools and textbooks to Kelstone 1 Primary School as part of efforts to strengthen digital literacy.
Community members welcomed the support, expressing optimism that it would improve learning outcomes.
“I am happy with what happened here; our children got books and this will enhance education. We were in the top ten, but we expect to be number one,” said a community member.
Another parent added:
“We expect our children to pass. We want the school to compete with boarding schools. We are happy our school is developing and we are grateful for the books because they will increase the pass rate.”
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Christopher Magomo said Government was prioritising the development of schools in farming areas.
“We fought hard to ensure there are no satellite schools here. All schools in farming areas should be examination centres so that learners do not walk long distances to sit for their exams, as this affects pass rates. The staff is making great efforts to ensure Kelstone is recognised, and we want the DSI to continue supporting the development of schools in this area,” he said.
The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) also supported the school by donating sports equipment, sanitary wear and textbooks.
TIMB Chief Executive Officer, Mr Emmanuel Matsvaire said the organisation remained committed to supporting education in tobacco-growing communities.
“We support Government’s position that all children from tobacco-producing communities should be in school,” he said.
The ICT initiative comes as Government targets the establishment of 500 ICT hubs in rural schools nationwide to narrow the digital divide between rural and urban communities.
