Government builds 500+ new schools nationwide

Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Reporter

THE Government has accelerated efforts to transform Zimbabwe’s education landscape, with over 500 new schools constructed across the country in the past three years, a move that underlines the Government’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainable development in line with Vision 2030.

The large-scale school construction and rehabilitation drive is being spearheaded through devolution funding, in partnership with the private sector, faith-based organisations and development agencies.

This collective effort has not only expanded access to education but also created employment opportunities in various communities.

The newly built schools are equipped with modern facilities, including computer laboratories, horticulture projects and fishery programmes, which promote practical learning while generating income to support school operations.

In an interview, Primary and Secondary Education Minister, Dr Torerayi Moyo, said the developments highlight the success of the Second Republic’s inclusive development agenda, which seeks to leave no one and no place behind.

In previously marginalised areas such as Gokwe North, where access to quality education infrastructure has long been limited, new schools are now taking shape under devolution funding and community partnerships. The commissioning of these schools marks a major step towards bridging the infrastructure gap in the education sector.

Dr Moyo, said the Government, working with partners, has made remarkable progress in improving education infrastructure across the country.

“The Government and several partners are constructing primary and secondary schools across the country. I am confident that we have constructed over 500 schools in the past three years,” said Dr Moyo.

“We are talking about numerous partners supporting these initiatives, including private entities. We are compiling a public register of these schools, with names, locations and photos, because transparency is non-negotiable.”

He said the 2025 target to build more than 50 additional schools is already underway in several provinces, including Midlands, Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland South and Manicaland.

“We remain on course because construction of primary and secondary schools is underway in many provinces. These are not just buildings, they are beacons of opportunity for the future generation,” he said.

The minister also welcomed proposals for a mineral levy to fund education development in mining communities.
“It aligns with our broader vision under Education 5.0 — innovation, inclusivity and infrastructure.

“Our children deserve classrooms, not conflict. I invite unions to partner with us, not just challenge us. Together, we build,” said Dr Moyo.

In the Midlands Province, several schools are being rehabilitated or constructed under the devolution programme. These include Mudzengi and Zhaugwe primary schools in Shurugwi District, as well as Nyaradza, Nyamuroro, Budiriro and Mtora primary schools in Gokwe South.

A major milestone is the reconstruction of Globe and Phoenix Primary School in Kwekwe, which is set to be officially commissioned on October 23.

“Construction of the new Globe and Phoenix Primary School is complete, and the school will be officially commissioned on October 23.

“This marks a huge step in bringing education to people’s doorsteps in line with the principle of leaving no one and no place behind,” said Dr Moyo.

The new facility, built at a cost of approximately US$600 000, comprises several classroom blocks, an administration building and modern ablution facilities.

The 98-year-old Globe and Phoenix Primary School, which had 1 300 pupils, was closed in March 2023 following a ground subsidence incident that injured 18 pupils.

Since then, the learners have been temporarily housed at Sally Mugabe Primary School, where they are studying in 21 tents provided by the Civil Protection Unit (CPU).