Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
GOVERNMENT’s push to expand access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education is gaining traction, with a Bulawayo secondary school commissioning a modern science laboratory to strengthen practical learning.
The fully equipped facility was officially commissioned on Friday at Holy Messenger Janet Secondary School, a church-run institution in Tshabalala suburb, underscoring the growing contribution of community and faith-based organisations to national education goals.
The laboratory is expected to enhance the delivery of practical science lessons and improve learners’ readiness for science-based careers, in line with the Heritage-Based Education Curriculum.
Learners welcomed the development, saying it would bridge the gap between theory and practice. Form Three science student Ayanda Ncube said the new facility would significantly improve learning outcomes.
“Previously, most of our experiments were learnt from textbooks, but now we can carry them out ourselves. This motivates us to work harder and to consider careers in science,” she said.
Acting school head, Mrs Pamela Ncube, said the laboratory strengthens the school’s capacity to deliver practical lessons.
“This facility gives learners hands-on exposure to experiments, which is a key pillar of the new curriculum that emphasises practical skills, innovation and problem-solving,” she noted.
A parent, Ms Gugulethu Sibanda, said stakeholder investment in education is encouraging, “As parents, we are pleased to see stakeholders investing in our children’s future. This laboratory will help learners compete at both national and global levels.”
School Board Chair, Dr Sifundo C. Moyo, highlighted that the church-owned institution is committed to holistic development.
“Our mandate goes beyond spiritual guidance. We are investing in infrastructure that aligns with government policy and equips learners with practical skills for the future,” said Dr Moyo.
Government has commended the church and school authorities for complementing national efforts in education delivery.
Deputy Chief Director for Bulawayo Provincial Education Services, Mr Thabani Sibanda, indicated that such initiatives are vital for national development.
“This is a clear example of how community and faith-based institutions can support the implementation of the new curriculum. Science laboratories are critical in producing the skills required for national development. When communities invest in such infrastructure, they directly complement government efforts to nurture competent, innovative and practical learners.”
Government continues to roll out the Heritage-Based Education Curriculum, which focuses on skills development, innovation and the promotion of STEM learning.
