Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
Government has intensified efforts to expand internet connectivity in rural schools through the rollout of Starlink kits, as part of broader plans to bridge the digital divide and ensure learners in remote areas benefit from the country’s ongoing digital transformation.
Speaking during the handover of Starlink kits at Jopembe Primary School in Beitbridge West, local legislator, Cde Thusani Ndou, said the equipment was being distributed in phases to improve access to digital learning resources in rural communities.
Cde Ndou said the programme was in line with President Mnangagwa’s development philosophy of leaving “no one and no place behind”.
He said the initiative seeks to ensure that rural learners enjoy the same educational opportunities and digital access available in urban schools.
“This is part of the Second Republic’s priorities aimed at improving network connectivity in rural schools to bridge the digital divide and strengthen the implementation of education policies aligned with the national development agenda and Vision 2030,” said Cde Ndou.
Jopembe Primary School development committee chairperson Mr Samson Mabetha welcomed the donation, saying reliable internet access would significantly improve the quality of education at the school.
He said digital connectivity had become essential as the world moves towards full digitisation.
“We feel honoured as parents of Jopembe Primary School now that our children can access global libraries and teachers can do their work more easily,” he said.
Ward 14 councillor Cde Tamson Lamula said the Government was committed to making technology and education accessible to rural communities without barriers.
The school connectivity programme comes weeks after Matabeleland South Youth Quota Member of Parliament Tinashe Mushipe donated Starlink kits to chiefs in Beitbridge and pledged to pay subscription fees for 12 months.
Improved internet access is expected to strengthen communication, widen access to information and improve coordination of community development programmes.
