Government satisfied with progress in Matabeleland South 40 science labs construction project

MATABELELAND SOUTH Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has expressed satisfaction with the construction of new science learning laboratories at 40 secondary schools across the province, describing the initiative as a major boost to the education sector ahead of the 2026 national Independence Day celebrations to be hosted at Maphisa Growth Point in Matobo District.

The laboratories form part of broader efforts to strengthen education infrastructure in Matabeleland South, with a particular focus on improving access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. The programme aims to provide learners with opportunities for practical experimentation, especially in remote and underserved rural communities that have long operated without properly equipped facilities.

Following inspections at Siyoka High School and Malala Secondary School in Beitbridge recently, Minister Nguluvhe said the projects are set to transform the province’s education landscape.

The laboratories are being constructed across all seven districts of Matabeleland South. In Beitbridge District alone, civil works are underway at nine secondary schools, with the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) serving as the lead implementing agency.

The schools benefiting from the programme in Beitbridge include Siyoka and Nula High Schools, Chituripasi, Malungudzi Matshiloni, Malala, Malikuwa, Swereki, and Chamnanga Secondary Schools.

Minister Nguluvhe commended development partners for their support and reiterated Government’s commitment to improving the quality of education.

“We are happy with the progress on these labs across the province and our idea is to have all of them at the wall plate level by Independence Day. We expect to complete them by the end of the year. After that, we will equip them with the necessary equipment. These labs are being built at the instigation of our President, Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa, to ensure that no place and no one remains behind in national development across all sectors.

“In addition, you will appreciate that children from our region are struggling to study STEM subjects because of a lack of facilities and we are grateful our President has given us these 40 science laboratories as part of the legacy projects as we host this year’s national independence celebrations.”

Minister Nguluvhe said Government anticipates far-reaching benefits in the coming years, with more pupils passing science subjects and qualifying for professional degrees in fields such as medicine, engineering and related disciplines.

He said exposure to science and computer studies is critical in developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills and creativity among learners, enabling them to meaningfully contribute to national development.

While acknowledging Government’s role in rolling out the programme, Minister Nguluvhe urged businesses and communities to continue working together to uplift education infrastructure across the province.

“The completion of these labs, especially in schools located in remote areas, allows the girl child in rural areas to study STEM subjects, which have long been a preserve for boys in developed areas,” said Ms Mashudu Sibanda from the Majini area.

A traditional leader from the Siyoka area, Mr Alpheus Ncube, said the project has brought additional benefits to communities beyond education.

“Most of our youths have secured jobs at these construction sites and many will benefit through a skills transfer programme from Rida. They will be able to use the skills to sustain their living in the future,” he said.

A resident of Beitbridge West, Mr Edmore Sibanda, said he was encouraged by the prospects of children from his area gaining access to science subjects previously available mainly in urban centres.
Across Matabeleland South, many secondary schools continue to face serious shortages of Mathematics and Science teachers, as well as laboratory resources required for effective teaching of the subjects.

As a result, a large proportion of pupils in the province opt for arts subjects due to limited access to science education facilities.

In 2019, President Mnangagwa directed the Ministers of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development and Primary and Secondary Education to ensure that science subjects are taught at most schools in Beitbridge.

He has also consistently urged learners to pursue science subjects and emerging fields of study as Government intensifies efforts to modernise the economy in line with global developments.