Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people through education, innovation and skills development, describing education as one of the most powerful tools for driving social transformation, reducing inequalities and unlocking the full potential of citizens.
Vice-President Dr Kembo Mohadi made the remarks while officiating at the 2026 National Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Schools Essay Writing Competition Awards Ceremony in Harare.
The competition, which was introduced last year to raise awareness of the SDGs among learners across Zimbabwe, has experienced remarkable growth, with participation increasing from 4 032 learners in its inaugural edition to 30 658 this year.
This year’s competition attracted learners from schools across the country, including those in rural communities and learners living with disabilities, reflecting an increasing interest in sustainable development issues among young people.
A total of 18 outstanding learners were recognised for their work, comprising 15 winners from five competition categories and three winners in a special category for learners with disabilities.
“As the Government, we remain committed to empowering young people with the knowledge, skills and opportunities necessary to become active contributors to national development. We firmly believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming societies, reducing inequalities and unlocking the full potential of citizens.
“I am encouraged by the participation of learners from all provinces, including those from rural and urban schools, as well as learners with disabilities. This broad participation reflects our collective commitment to inclusivity and reinforces the national vision of ensuring that no one and no place is left behind, as we advance our development agenda,” he said.
Vice-President Dr Mohadi said the quality of entries submitted this year demonstrated a growing understanding among learners of the key challenges and opportunities facing society.
He said many participants explored critical issues such as renewable energy, climate resilience, environmental conservation, water and sanitation, while also examining technological innovation, inclusive education, responsible production and consumption, employment creation and social inclusion.
According to the Vice-President, the themes addressed by learners closely align with Government priorities under the
National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Zimbabwe’s goal of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030.
“These themes are closely aligned with the Government’s development priorities as outlined in the National Development Strategy 2 and with our national aspiration to attain an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
“What is particularly impressive is that many learners moved beyond merely identifying challenges and instead proposed practical and innovative solutions rooted in local realities. This demonstrates that our young people possess not only awareness of development issues but also the creativity and problem-solving capabilities required to address them,” he said.
The Vice-President said Government regards young people as key partners in the country’s development agenda and not merely beneficiaries of development programmes.
He noted that ideas generated through initiatives such as the essay competition have the potential to influence future innovations, policies and development interventions.
“The SDGs and NDS2 provide a shared framework for advancing inclusive and sustainable development. They call for concerted efforts to eradicate poverty, improve health and education outcomes, promote gender equality, protect the environment, create decent employment opportunities, strengthen innovation and industrialisation, build peaceful, inclusive, and resilient communities. Achieving these objectives requires the active participation of all sectors of society, particularly youths,” he said.
Vice-President Dr Mohadi said young people have a critical role to play in advancing national development through entrepreneurship, innovation, skills development, community service and environmental stewardship.
“This is why the Government continues to support programmes that foster innovation, critical thinking and active citizenship participation among learners. These initiatives nurture future leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, policymakers and professionals who will drive Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development in the years ahead,” he said.
He said the timing of the awards ceremony ahead of the Junior Parliament activities scheduled for July 8 at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden demonstrated Government’s commitment to promoting meaningful youth participation in governance and national affairs.
“Through the Junior Parliament and other youth empowerment platforms, we are cultivating a generation that appreciates democratic values, responsible leadership and active citizenship. These platforms are essential in preparing future leaders who will carry forward Zimbabwe’s development aspirations.”
Vice-President Dr Mohadi encouraged learners to remain inquisitive, innovative and committed to excellence by identifying challenges within their communities and developing practical solutions that improve the lives of others.
