Story by Tafara Chikumira, Midlands Bureau Chief
THE government has commissioned three Advanced Level science laboratories at St Pauls High School in, as the institution aims to take Science Technologies Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects to another level.
The science block comprises biology, chemistry, and physics laboratories as well as a smart lecture room.
The facility constructed for US$237 million will enable the school to start conducting Advanced Level STEM-related subjects.
“We have been having some bright students here, especially in the sciences who were being absorbed by other schools. However, with this development, we are now able to enrol the best in the areas of STEM. This will also act as a motivation to the lower grades so that they start having an interest in the STEM area,” St Pauls High School, head of the department of STEM subjects, Mr Devine Lameck said.
“We now have proper practicals in the area of Biology. I can see that my dream of becoming a doctor is shaping up. I am now geared to give it my all,” a pupil at the school said.
“We are very grateful for this achievement. I can now start practising most experiments I used to do in theory. I can now feel the real thing. It’s good that we are heading in the right direction,” another pupil added.
The government is impressed by the strides being made by schools in complying with the demands of heritage-based learning.
“The construction of science laboratories is a pivotal component in advancing the Vision of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, as it directly supports the goals of enhancing education quality and fostering innovation,” Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Torerai Moyo said.
“By providing students with access to modern laboratories, educational institutions can facilitate hands-on learning and experimentation, crucial for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on building a knowledge-based economy, where scientific research and technological advancements play a key role.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, since its inception on 24 November 2017, the New Dispensation under the able, listening and visionary leadership of His Excellency President, has made significant progress in the education sector, including the adoption of the Vision 2030 accelerator Education 5.0 model showcased through the establishment of innovation hubs, industrial Parks, Science and Computer laboratories as well as construction of modern schools,” Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube said.
The Second Republic is on a drive to promote the absorption of STEM subjects in schools aimed at encouraging innovation for posterity in line with the Heritage Based Curriculum.
