Online Reporter
Belindah Chikandiwa and Anotida Chonzi
GOVERNMENT has pledged to adopt and pilot innovative proposals developed by students at the inaugural Sustainable Development Goals Schools Proposal Writing Competition National Awards Ceremony.
The event, held in Harare on Thursday brought together winning students from all 10 provinces, educators and senior Government officials who said youths are critical partners in achieving Zimbabwe’s development targets.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Edgar Moyo, set the tone by revealing global statistics and praising Zimbabwean youths for their resilience and innovation.
“With only five years remaining to 2030 deadline, the 2025 Global Sustainable Development Report highlights that 48 percent of the targets are not progressing as required,” said Minister Moyo.
“Yet, amid global difficulties, the voices and ideas of our young people have resonated with conviction, courage and hope.
“When a student from Masvingo proposed an inclusive after-school digital club to support people with disabilities, we saw innovation rooted in empathy.
“Another advocated for a community-based recyclables cooperative. These initiatives embody the core of the SDGs.”
“The proposals today will inform our policy-making, guide our budgeting priorities and shape partnerships. We will continue to mainstream youth participation in policy development,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Angeline Gata, gave testament to the critical role that primary and secondary education plays in nurturing future leaders.
“Our education system is more than just academic instruction. It is about instilling values, cultivating critical thinking, empowering students to engage with real world challenges.
“Think big. Think wide and offer solutions . . . Go out to your communities, schools, districts and implement your ideas.”
She announced the ministry’s plan to “engage with regional education directors to pilot the most promising initiatives in schools across provinces,” she said.
Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Minister Charles Tawengwa was represented by Director Mrs Spiwe Nyamatore, who said the Government was committed to using the ideas and innovations.
“This event is a vivid reflection of our nation’s commitment to devolution and inclusive development, ensuring that all regions, districts and communities have a voice,” she said.
“Whether a proposal comes from an urban classroom in Harare or a very remote school in other provinces, it carries equal weight and equal merit,” she said.
Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Willard Manungo, detailed Zimbabwe’s progress on specific SDGs, including being on track for Climate Action and Responsible Consumption.
