Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has raised concerns over the growing impact of climate change on schools, highlighting that extreme weather conditions are endangering students and disrupting learning.
Speaking at the launch of a climate change programme this morning, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Mr Moses Mhike said climate change needs urgent attention.
Government, in partnership with UNICEF and with financial support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), is launching the ‘Climate Action for the Last Mile: Reaching the Most Vulnerable Children in Zimbabwe’ project to strengthen climate resilience for children and vulnerable communities.
“Of the targeted number that this programme aims to support, 40 percent will be children,” Mr Mhike said.
“Schools are strategically positioned to influence communities, and the climate education that children receive will spread to their families and beyond.
“Just today, the Honourable Minister of Education was on radio appealing to parents and students to ensure that they do not cross flooded rivers when going to or from school.”
Mr Mhike said droughts and floods are major challenges leading to food insecurity and increased school drop-outs.
“When there is drought, families struggle. Some children may leave school to work and support their families,” he said.
The ministry also called for urgent funding to strengthen school infrastructure and address climate-related challenges.
With Zimbabwe not spared from the effects of climate change, the Government and its development partners are under pressure to act swiftly to protect education and ensure that schools remain safe places for students.
