Gokwe North relishes gains of independence

THE Government continues to make significant strides in bridging the digital divide in education, with primary schools in Gokwe North, Midlands Province, being the latest beneficiaries of the National Presidential Computerisation Programme.

Gokwe North District, which will host this year’s 45th Independence Anniversary Celebrations in the Nembudziya area, is in the spotlight as the Second Republic works tirelessly to leave a lasting legacy in infrastructure and Information Communication Technology (ICT) development. Running under the theme “Zim @ 45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030,” this year’s celebrations will bring together over 100 000 people from all 10 provinces on April 18 to commemorate the nation’s journey and achievements.

As part of the initiative, the programme is providing schools with essential tools, including tablets, solar power systems, and Starlink internet connectivity, ensuring equal access to digital education and promoting e-learning. This initiative is a crucial step towards achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

One of the key objectives of Vision 2030 is to promote digital literacy and increase access to ICT across the country.

To advance e-learning, schools are receiving tablets, solar power systems, and Starlink internet connectivity, which will ensure that all pupils, regardless of their geographical location, have access to the same digital resources.

Since the inception of the Second Republic, the education sector has undergone a remarkable transformation through an improved curriculum, the construction of schools, and the introduction of e-learning.

Mudondo and Chota Primary Schools, which have recently been solarised, received a total of 100 tablets, with the learning facilities also being connected to Starlink internet.

Addressing parents, teachers, and pupils during the handover ceremony at Chota Primary School, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Cde Torerai Moyo, emphasised that the Government’s commitment to this programme demonstrates its resolve to leave no one and no place behind. This initiative is designed to ensure that all citizens have equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of their location or socio-economic status.

“This initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the country’s education sector and contribute to achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030,” said Minister Moyo. He added that the Government’s continued efforts to promote digital inclusion and e-learning reflect its dedication to using technology to improve education outcomes and drive economic growth.

Minister Moyo reassured learners that the Government is committed to transforming primary and secondary education for sustainable productivity and growth. “We don’t want to leave any place or anyone behind. We want to ensure every child has the same educational opportunities. This Presidential Computer Programme will be extended to every school across Zimbabwe to change the educational landscape,” he said.

Minister Moyo emphasised that no child anywhere in the country should be left behind when it comes to ICT. “No child will be left behind in this digital era. Technology is now an integral part of our lives, and our children must also benefit, regardless of where they live,” he said.

Gokwe North District Schools Inspector, Mr Douglas Samunyaka, expressed his appreciation for the development, stating that it would significantly improve the learning conditions for pupils. “This will certainly help our learners to be on par with their peers. We are grateful for the Government’s efforts that have empowered our learners,” he said. Excited pupils and grateful parents have welcomed the initiative, commending the Second Republic’s commitment to equipping learners with the tools needed to thrive in the global digital era.