Story by Wellington Makonese
Zimbabwe has pledged to drive the competence-based education system which is the bedrock of a sustainable economy with investment in youths at the centre of the agenda.
The efficacy of Zimbabwe’s tertiary education has been recognised across the globe with the science technology and innovation cluster taking the lead.
This came out at the 9th graduation ceremony of the Telone Centre for Learning, where 701 graduates were conferred with diplomas and degrees.
Chikwiriza Diza came first at the Huawei Leap Summit and 3rd at the Huawei Seeds from the Future in China.
The exploits have inspired other Zimbabwean students.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to learn data science, the thrust is now to revolutionize how we do things in the country,” a student told the ZBC News.
Another said, “It is an honour for me to be able to complete studies in hands on skills which will surely push me towards opening my enterprise.”
“I have been doing digital marketing and I’m aiming to break into industry after honing my skills,” noted another.
Tel One Centre for Learning says investment in the telecommunications sector will drive the country’s development agenda.
“Our programs here plays a pivotal role in attaining digital economy. We have embraced the 5.0 model on innovation and we have this competence-based education and it fosters critical thinking,” said TelOne Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Lawrence Nkala.
Government has challenged all institutions of higher learning to embrace development-oriented education.
The Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Honorable Tatenda Mavetera said, “The Government of Zimbabwe launched the Heritage Based Education 5.0 model, which is ushering in a new era of learning, innovation, and creativity. As we embrace the concept of Education 5.0, we recognize that education must evolve beyond traditional teaching methods. President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision for Education 5.0 emphasizes a transformative approach to education in Zimbabwe. In this case, Education 5.0 emphasizes integrating technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship into our learning systems. It prepares our students not only to thrive in their careers but also to become innovators and leaders in the digital economy.”
The graduands at the SADC Certified Centre completed Diplomas in Telecommunications engineering, software engineering, data science, computer networking, cyber security, digital marketing, business analytics, financial engineering.
A good number completed the Post graduate diploma in digital marketing, and business analytics.
This comes after President Mnangagwa reviewed the National ICT Policy; the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, and the National Broadband Plan which are in line with the National Development Strategy, with the aim to ensure access to affordable, fast and safe digital technologies for all.
