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Nokutenda Tobve
IN a major boost for equity in education and digital literacy, the Government has connected 3 425 schools countrywide to the internet in the past few years.
This is part of a broader programme to enhance e-learning opportunities and foster digital competency among learners in both urban and rural areas.
Responding to questions from The Sunday Mail, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s director of communications and advocacy, Mr Taungana Ndoro, said the project is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in Zimbabwe’s education system.
“I am pleased to report that, as of our latest assessment, a total of 3 425 schools across both urban and rural areas in Zimbabwe have been connected to the internet.
“This represents a significant increase from our previous figures, as we have been working diligently to expand access to this critical resource for our students and educators,” he said.
By the end of this year, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education plans to connect an additional 2 000 schools.
“This will include 1 200 rural schools and 800 urban schools, as we strive to ensure equitable access to digital resources nationwide.
“To bridge the digital divide, we have made great strides in providing free unlimited Wi-Fi to schools, especially those in underserved rural communities.
“I can confirm that 1 850 schools have now been equipped with this free Wi-Fi service, ensuring that students and teachers in these areas have the connectivity they need to access online educational resources and opportunities,” added Mr Ndoro.
Under the project, he said, the ministry and other stakeholders have ensured that connectivity is not disrupted by power outages or other infrastructure challenges.
“To that end, 1 675 schools have been equipped with alternative energy sources, such as solar systems, to guarantee continuous internet access.”
The scope of the project also entails installing computer labs in schools countrywide, with over 2 000 learning institutions having already benefitted.
“Regarding computer labs, I am proud to say that 2 100 schools across Zimbabwe now have dedicated computer labs installed, providing students with hands-on experience and opportunities to develop critical digital skills,”said Mr Ndoro.
“Our plans for this year include the establishment of an additional 750 computer labs, further expanding access to technology-based learning.”
The Government, he added, remains “deeply committed to leveraging on digital technologies to enhance the quality of education and provide equitable opportunities for all students in Zimbabwe”.
The schools’ internet connectivity programme is also being supported by the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services; and the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe.
Lack of internet access in many rural schools created a significant digital divide.
It hindered schoolchildren from accessing online learning platforms and the available educational resources.
This disparity was particularly pronounced during the Covid-19 pandemic, when online learning became a critical tool for ensuring continuity.
Online Reporter