Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
Educationist and Marondera farmer Dr Cleopas Kundiona has commended the Second Republic under President Mnangagwa for reviewing learning institutions’ curriculum, which resulted in the birth of Education 5.0.
Dr Kundiona, who is the founder and owner of UMAA Institute Zimbabwe, said the new curriculum is meant to impart quality education and knowledge to learners who will be able to bring solutions to challenges being faced not only locally, but worldwide.
He said Education 5.0 is a game-changer and Zimbabwe will soon witness a wave of transformation, which can be attributed to properly skilled and hands-on young citizens.
Dr Kundiona said it is remarkable to note that the curriculum is supportive of Vision 2030 aspirations.
He made the remarks while addressing learners during UMAA Institute Zimbabwe’s 39th Session of Prize Giving Day held in Marondera recently.
“Our Government and independent education players such as UMAA remain committed to fulfilling the potential of learners in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“The curriculum in Zimbabwe, since colonial times, has tended to be overall academic. However, the trend today is paying increased attention to competency development, that is, learners’ ability to mobilise their knowledge, skills and attitude independently and creatively to address different challenges.
“So I say to students, never be afraid to engage your education, knowledge, skills and physical power to turn around our economic development. We are confident that we have equipped you with the best and greatest weapon in knowledge and skills to use in developing this beautiful nation, Zimbabwe.
“Over the past 39 years, UMAA has equipped with developmental educational skills to over 30 000 students who have gone through our educational systems. It is a partner and associate to our Government in making sure that education is a paramount and pre-requisite to all Zimbabweans.”
Dr Kundiona also took the opportunity to warn students about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
“You must never tolerate drug and substance abuse. As you know, the school has zero tolerance for that,” he said.
“So I want to call upon parents and guardians to take good care of these beautiful children once they are on school holidays.
“I challenge you, learners, to shun the habit. Let me applaud President Mnangagwa for his proactive approach to decisively address drug and substance abuse. To all learners, report to the nearest police anyone dealing or abusing illegal drugs and substances.”
