Vusumuzi Dube
Nyore Madzianike, Senior Reporter
THE Government remains committed to transforming Zimbabwe’s education sector through sustained investment in infrastructure, teacher development and innovation, Vice-President Kembo Mohadi has said.
Speaking at the inaugural Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education 2025 National Excellence Awards in Harare yesterday, VP Mohadi said the education system will continue to be aligned with global standards while advancing access to quality, inclusive and equitable learning.
The awards ceremony recognised outstanding students, schools and educators from across the country, including those from both urban and rural areas, as well as private institutions offering Zimsec (Zimbabwe School Examinations Council) and Cambridge examinations.
Government, VP Mohadi said, will prioritise improvements in key areas such as educational infrastructure, teacher training, digital learning and the strengthening of science, technology and innovation.
He noted that these efforts are aimed at ensuring Zimbabwe’s education system remains competitive and responsive to both national development goals and global demands.
By recognising excellence at Grade Seven, Ordinary Level and Advanced Level, he added, the awards help foster a culture of meritocracy that prepares learners to compete in a globalised economy while remaining grounded in national values.
VP Mohadi likened the initiative to the 2025 Performance Awards Ceremony for public sector employees that was recently presided over by President Mnangagwa, saying both platforms highlight the importance of rewarding excellence in driving national development.
“This really showcased how individual and collective efforts can contribute to broader objectives while at the same time underscoring the Government’s focus on improving services outcomes,” he said.
“His Excellency, the President, urged us all to recommit ourselves fully to the transformation of livelihoods of all citizens.”
He said continued recognition and support have contributed to improved performance across the public sector, urging stakeholders in education to sustain the momentum.
VP Mohadi also placed the awards within the broader national development framework, noting that Zimbabwe is transitioning from the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) to the next phase as it moves towards Vision 2030.
“The education sector is, therefore, crucial for any nation’s progress, hence we are gathered here to celebrate a milestone in our national journey towards human capital development.”
He added that the awards reflect Government’s commitment to the Heritage-Based Curriculum and its role in shaping a modern, relevant education system.
The inclusion of schools from diverse backgrounds — including members of the Association of Trust Schools, private colleges and rural institutions — demonstrates that excellence is achievable across all sectors, he said.
“By recognising excellence across Grade Seven, Ordinary Level and Advanced Levels, we are reinforcing a culture of meritocracy that ensures that our youth are prepared to compete in a globalised economy while remaining rooted in our national identity. This initiative is meticulously designed to be inclusive, bridging the gap between various educational sectors.”
He also highlighted the importance of the Heritage-Based Curriculum, saying it equips learners to apply indigenous knowledge systems alongside modern science to solve contemporary challenges.
The Vice President commended the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for improvements in the 2025 Zimsec results.
Ordinary Level pass rates rose to 35,26 percent from 33 percent in 2024, while Advanced Level results improved to 95,75 percent.
However, Grade Seven performance declined to 48,49 percent.
He attributed the overall gains to ongoing education reforms, particularly the shift towards the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which integrates cultural heritage with modern scientific learning.
Online Reporter