Story by Chiedza Mutyavaviri
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to building an inclusive and digitally empowered education system, as efforts intensify to ensure equitable access to technology for learners across the country.
The pledge follows the handover of Starlink satellite connectivity kits by the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in Harare this Wednesday, in a move aimed at expanding internet access to schools, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation agenda.
“For too long, geography has determined opportunity. Schools without fibre infrastructure or mobile network coverage have remained isolated from the global knowledge economy. Through satellite-based connectivity, that barrier is now being decisively dismantled. These kits will enable schools to access digital learning platforms, virtual classrooms, online libraries, teacher training resources, and global educational content in real time.”
She added that the initiative was a strategic investment in human capital, designed to equip learners with the digital skills required in a rapidly evolving global economy.
“Zimbabwe is deliberately positioning itself to build a generation of digitally skilled citizens. Young people who are not only consumers of technology but also innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and problem-solvers. The future of our economy, our public service, and our competitiveness in the Fourth Industrial Revolution depends on the digital foundations we lay in our schools today.
“In that regard, this initiative is fully aligned with the government’s broader digital transformation agenda, including digital literacy programmes, innovative education platforms, and the integration of ICTs into curriculum delivery,” Minister Mavetera said.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Professor Torerayi Moyo, welcomed the intervention, emphasising that internet connectivity has become a necessity rather than a luxury in modern education systems.
“The introduction of these Starlink kits will revolutionise how our students access educational resources, conduct research, and connect with their peers and educators, regardless of their geographical location. I would like to extend our appreciation to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his unwavering commitment to advancing education in our nation.
“His initiation of the Presidential Internet Scheme, coupled with efforts toward computerisation and the solarisation of rural schools, provides us with a comprehensive package to bridge the digital divide,” he said.
The Starlink roll-out is expected to significantly enhance access to digital education tools, reinforcing the government’s policy of leaving no learner and no place behind as the country advances towards a knowledge-driven economy.
