Online Reporter
Tanyaradzwa Kutaura-Herald Correspondent
THE Heritage-Based Education Curriculum, unveiled by the Government in 2024, is starting to yield positive results as several schools and learning centres use local resources, innovation and skills to achieve self-reliance through the production of goods and services.
The initiative aims to improve educational institutions and contribute to the nation’s development.
Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Angeline Gata, who is touring schools in Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces, highlighted how various projects initiated under the HBC were generating income for the schools to alleviate funding challenges.
The Government introduced HBC to integrate Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage with modern educational demands from 2024 to 2030.
This curriculum focuses on innovation, creativity and practical skills development to cultivate citizens with relevant skills and values.
It replaces the Continuous Assessment Learning Activities (CALA), which was viewed as burdensome.
On a visit to Kuredza Primary School in Mashonaland West Province, Deputy Minister Gata described HBC as a game-changer for the country’s educational landscape.
She acknowledged that while there was still work to be done to empower the younger generation fully, significant milestones were already being achieved.
“The Heritage-Based Curriculum is not intended to burden stakeholders; rather, it aims to provide lifelong skills that enhance the well-being of learners,” she said.
At Kuredza Primary School, where focus is on various technical subjects, Deputy Minister Gata assessed the institution’s readiness for the term.
“Our focus today is to monitor and evaluate our goals as the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for 2026,” she said.
“Here at Kuredza, learning is taking place. We opened our schools on Tuesday, and everything went smoothly.
“Our learner turnout is good, with parents actively participating.”
Deputy Minister Gata highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the Heritage-Based Education among stakeholders for its effectiveness.
“As a takeaway, we need to create more awareness about the curriculum and the projects being undertaken. It’s crucial that everyone understands what the HBC entails,” she stated.
She noted that the HBC has revolutionised learning, mentioning that any existing gaps will be addressed to align educational outcomes with the Education 5.0 model.
“There is still a gap in understanding among some parents and teachers regarding their responsibilities. They need to equip learners with skills so that when they leave school, they possess valuable knowledge.
“This should not be a burden on parents or teachers,” she added.
