Online Reporter
Ray Bande
Mutare Bureau
GOVERNMENT is advancing its digital empowerment initiative in marginalised areas by distributing Information Communication Technology (ICT) devices nationwide.
ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera made the commitment at the donation of 15 laptops, a projector, a whiteboard and a Starlink internet device to St George’s Muchena Primary School in Mutasa District.
The donation seeks to enhance ICT use in schools, particularly in underserved regions.
The initiative coincided with the Manicaland ICT Expo, making Manicaland the third province to host such an event.
In her keynote address, Minister Mavetera said: “Marginalised communities are excluded from the digital economy due to gaps in awareness, infrastructure and access.
“This is why we have taken this expo across the nation from Mashonaland to Matabeleland and now we are in Manicaland.
“This ensures that every citizen, regardless of where they live, can participate in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation.”
Minister Mavetera stated that the development aligned with Vision 2030, advocating inclusive digital transformation across the country.
The donation to St George’s Muchena School is part of a collaborative effort between the Ministry of ICT and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to improve internet connectivity in all schools.
Under the Presidential Internet Scheme, no school will be left behind in this digital inclusion effort.
Bishop Eric Ruwona of the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland expressed gratitude for the Government’s support, noting that the computers will modernise the school and equip students with essential ICT skills.
Minister of State for Manicaland Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, echoed the commitment to keeping pace with national digital transformation, highlighting the strides Manicaland has made in integrating ICTs in education and community initiatives.
The ICT Expo featured various exhibitors, including tertiary institutions, telecommunications companies and independent organisations like Young Women for ED, all contributing to the promotion of digital education in the region.
