Govt notes role of STEM in industrialisation
Story by Mercy Bofu
THE government is aligning the curriculum framework for primary and secondary education to the national development requirements with its attention on the role of Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in the industrialisation of the country’s economy.
As the government seeks to ensure equal access to technology and computer literacy in all schools, Chadzamira Secondary School in Gutu is the latest beneficiary following the establishment of science and computer laboratories at the institution.
The laboratories established by a cement manufacturing company, PPC, will help bridge the digital gap between rural and urban schools.
“We are excited about this development at our school. We did not have computers here and it will be our first time using them,” said one of the students.
Another added, “Now that we have computers and access to the internet, we will be able to research, do our CALAS on time and know what is happening around us.”
Speaking after commissioning the laboratories, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerayi Moyo said the government is also training teachers to deliver in critical skills shortage areas such as STEM.
“In this digital age, access to technology and computer literacy have become vital for success in academics and the modern workforce. In line with this government is funding the Teacher Capacity Development Programme for accelerated capacitation of our teachers to deliver in critical skills shortage areas,” he said.
The provision of devolution funds by the government has helped Masvingo province to establish science laboratories in rural schools.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira said, “I am happy to inform you that several projects are being implemented to improve education across the province. 54 new classrooms are being constructed, old blocks rehabilitated, 19 classrooms converted into science laboratories and water infrastructure provided in schools.”
The development at Chadzamira High School, which includes establishing gardening projects is part of PPC’s corporate social responsibility.
PPC General Manager Sales and Marketing, Mr Nkosana Mapuma said, “We recognise the importance of investing in education and the future of our young generation, hence we are supporting government efforts in ensuring quality education for all our children.”
The government recognises the importance of partnering with the private sector in ensuring infrastructure development including in the education sector, hence the construction of schools under the public-private partnership.
