Story by Grace Sibanda
Zimbabwe has been commended for making strides in the education sector that have seen the country maintaining its status as one of the top five literate countries in Africa.
This came out at the International Literacy Day celebrations held in Bulawayo this Thursday.
The heritage-based education model, which has made provision for Zimbabwe’s 16 official languages, has not only promoted indigenous languages but enabled learners to come up with innovative ways of preserving their diverse cultures.
The International Literacy Day was a display of learners’ resilience and response to the heritage-based education framework, which also calls for learner participation in the country`s sustainable development drive.
A participant told the ZBC News, “Through the works I have here I am able to tell stories that relate to my culture and educate other people about my language and where I am from.”
“I am an author and having to write my books in my language has helped others to know more about my culture and language such that when they do mingle with my culture, they are not lost but are able to comprehend and gel well with others,” another participant said.
“Multilingual education has made provision for children with disability to not be left out in the learning process. As you see, my student does not have all the five senses but she is not left behind in accessing necessary education that can enable her to fend for herself and her family in future,” noted another.
The event was attended by UNESCO Southern Africa Regional Office director, Ms Nisha, who applauded Zimbabwe for the literacy strides.
She stated, “I am proud to reveal that Zimbabwe still remains among Africa`s top literate countries, a clear indication that the government is dedicated towards advancing literacy and education in our communities.”
Government reaffirmed its commitment towards promoting multi-lingual education through addressing various challenges experienced in schools such as resource mobilisation as well as capacitating schools with teachers who are proficient in various indigenous languages.
“The government of Zimbabwe is making significant strides to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing education. The government is also committed towards overcoming various challenges associated with promoting multilingual education,” said Bulawayo Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Judith Ncube.
This year`s celebrations ran under the theme: ‘Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Peace and Development’.
