Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala, Sunday News Reporter
THE Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training has donated Starlink internet kits to 15 schools in Bulawayo in an effort to enhance digital learning and strengthen youth empowerment initiatives spearheaded through the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe.
The handover ceremony, held at Mhlahlandlela Government Complex on Thursday, brought together Government officials, education representatives, junior parliamentarians and school heads.
The beneficiaries in all high schools were Njube, Mpopoma, Mandwandwe, Maranatha, Magwegwe, St Bernards, Pumula, Entumbane, Cowdray Park, Milton, Petra, Denmark College, Hamilton, King George and Methodist Collage.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube who was represented by the deputy director for environmental planning and management in her office, Mrs Norah Mupaza said the donation reflects Government’s commitment to expanding digital access across the education sector.
She stressed that the introduction of satellite internet kits marks a significant step in modernising Zimbabwe’s education system and ensuring learners benefit from digital learning opportunities.
“In today’s world, connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Reliable internet access enables learners and teachers to explore a vast world of knowledge, research materials and global learning platforms,” said Minister Ncube.
She commended the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training for leading youth development programmes aligned with national priorities.
Minister Ncube also acknowledged the Zimbabwe Youth Council for co-ordinating youth initiatives that ensure young people actively participate in national development.
She further recognised the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for its role in nurturing junior parliamentarians through schools.
“Schools play a crucial role in shaping learners not only academically but also in developing leadership qualities, discipline and patriotism,” said Minister Ncube.
She urged junior parliamentarians to use the internet responsibly for research, innovation and collaboration, while deepening their understanding of national and global affairs.
“Zimbabwe’s future lies in the hands of young people who are informed, empowered and committed to national progress,” said Minister Ncube.
Speaking at the same event, Bulawayo provincial deputy director responsible for secondary and non-formal education, Mr Thabani Sibanda, welcomed the initiative and thanked Government for improving connectivity in schools.
“Starlink kits being distributed are intended for school use rather than individual learners and will also benefit surrounding communities by improving internet connectivity. These kits will go a long way in promoting the ministry’s thrust towards digitalisation. The world has gone digital and this initiative helps ensure that our schools are not left behind.”
Mr Sibanda also expressed appreciation to school heads for supporting Government programmes, particularly during junior parliamentary elections, where schools provide transport and logistical support to enable learner participation in the democratic process.
Junior Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Development, Akhumuzi Khumalo, said the donation would help young people embrace and participate in the expanding digital landscape.
“Exposure to modern technology is essential for young people as the global digital ecosystem continues to expand. With these kits, students in our schools and communities will be able to access digital knowledge and occupy themselves with productive activities,” he said.
He also thanked the ministries and partners involved, pledging that junior parliamentarians would use the resources responsibly.
The distribution of the satellite internet kits is expected to significantly enhance connectivity in beneficiary schools and strengthen digital learning initiatives across Bulawayo.
