Government committed to improving technology in schools

Herald Correspondent

The power of technology is being harnessed to drive innovation and improve outcomes in schools, with Government committed to this approach, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo said yesterday.

Addressing guests at the annual national children’s awards ceremony in Harare, he stressed the significance of incorporating technology in schools.

“I am reminded of the powerful impact that technology has on our education system and the world at large,” said Minister Moyo. “Technology has transformed the way we teach and learn, opening up countless opportunities for pupils to engage with their learning materials in new and exciting ways.

“From interactive learning tools to online resources, technology has revolutionised the classroom experience, making learning more accessible, engaging, and personalised for pupils of all ages.”

There was need to invest in cutting-edge technology solutions, fostering collaboration between educators and technology experts, and empowering pupils to become digital citizens equipped to thrive in the digital age.

Minister Moyo said the newly introduced heritage-based curriculum resonated well with the idea of technology.

“Our Ministry is making strides to develop ICT competencies in both teachers and pupils through the heritage-based curriculum which seeks to address the following key areas: application of ICT in learning areas and infusion of ICT across all learning areas. It is our responsibility and mandate to provide all pupils with ICT gadgets,” he said. “Cognisant of the fact that science, technology and innovation provide pupils with cognitive and practical experiences that help them interpret the natural world, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education introduced design and technology leaning areas such as technical graphics, textile technology and design, wood technology and design and metal technology and design.

“The thrust was to encourage innovativeness, provide opportunities, materials and equipment for creativity and the development of open and artistic attitudes in pupils. To this end, our Ministry has identified technical high schools across the country that will act as centres of excellence in terms of technology and we are currently working to equip these centres.”

Minister Moyo urged members in the business community to partner with the Ministry in complementing the Government’s provision of inclusive, relevant and high-quality education in line with the dictates of the heritage-based curriculum.