Story by Aifheli Mudau
GOVERNMENT is intensifying efforts to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural schools through the expansion of internet connectivity infrastructure in underserved communities.
Learners at Jopembe Primary School in Beitbridge District this Monday became the latest beneficiaries of Starlink internet kits distributed under the national school digitalisation programme.
The initiative forms part of government efforts to improve access to digital learning resources and modern technologies in line with President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s development mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
Learners at the school welcomed the development, saying improved internet connectivity would strengthen access to educational materials and enhance academic performance.
Headgirl Mercy Nyoni said the initiative would expose learners to modern technologies and global educational resources.
“We are happy because we now have access to the latest digital technologies, which will help us better understand what we are learning in class and improve our pass rates,” she said.
Headboy Khuliso Sibanda said the intervention would help rural learners compete on the same level as their urban counterparts.
“We used to hear about these technologies from learners in urban areas, but now we are being given the same opportunities. We promise to work hard and make good use of these facilities,” he said.
Parents and community leaders also applauded the initiative, describing it as a major milestone for the local education sector.
Chairperson of the School Development Committee, Mr Samson Mabetha, said internet connectivity would improve both teaching and learning outcomes.
“We feel honoured as parents because our children will now be able to access global learning resources while teachers will also benefit from easier access to educational materials,” he said.
Traditional leaders commended government for extending modern technologies to rural communities.
Senior Village Head Jopembe, Mr Jack Malowa, said the initiative demonstrates government’s commitment to uplifting rural communities through technology and education.
Ward 14 Councillor Tamson Lamula said government remains focused on ensuring equitable access to education and digital services across the country.
Beitbridge West legislator Thusani Ndou said the distribution of Starlink kits is aimed at ensuring rural learners are not left behind in the digital era.
“We are bringing these Starlink kits to schools such as Jopembe Primary in fulfilment of the President’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind, so that learners can access digital learning resources without challenges,” he said.
The rollout of Starlink internet kits forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen the implementation of education policies aligned with Vision 2030 and the national development agenda.
