Online Reporter
Sione Amidu, [email protected]
GWANDA Government High School has joined a growing list of institutions benefiting from the Presidential Internet Scheme after receiving a Starlink kit through its junior parliamentarian, in a move set to transform teaching and learning at the school.
The Government is rolling out 9 000 Starlink kits to primary and secondary schools nationwide as part of efforts to bridge the digital divide, expand access to e-learning and ensure that learners in both urban and rural areas are not left behind in the digital era.
The high-speed satellite internet service enables schools to access online learning platforms, digital libraries and global research materials, enhancing curriculum delivery and supporting remote and blended learning.
A Form Three learner at the school, Nqaba Dube, who is also the Junior Member of Parliament for Gwanda Tshitaudze Constituency, expressed gratitude to the Government for spearheading the programme.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Government, through the Zimbabwe Youth Council and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, for this noble gesture,” she said.
“My school is among the beneficiaries of a Starlink kit, which will greatly improve internet access and assist both teachers and learners to access online learning resources.”
Nqaba described the development as a game-changer for learners.
“This opportunity will strengthen our digital skills and open new doors within the education system. We are living in a technology-driven world, and Starlink makes it easier for us as learners to conduct research and expand our knowledge beyond the classroom,” she said.
Nqaba said the initiative aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind, particularly in addressing disparities between rural and urban schools.
“Gone are the days when we relied on scarce hard-copy textbooks. With this connectivity, we can now access soft copies online anytime. Another major advantage is that the internet is available 24 hours a day, which supports continuous learning,” she said.
The School Development Committee (SDC) chairperson, Ms Makara Alice Masawu, also welcomed the development, saying it would expose learners to global knowledge and modern learning tools.
“On behalf of Gwanda Government High School, we are very grateful to the Second Republic for providing us with a Starlink kit through the junior parliamentarians,” she said.
“This will greatly benefit both teachers and learners in their research and lesson preparation. The Government is empowering the next generation to compete globally while exposing them to new ideas, cultures and opportunities.”
The Presidential Internet Scheme forms part of broader national efforts to modernise Zimbabwe’s education system, promote digital literacy and support the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in schools.
With improved connectivity, schools are expected to enhance academic performance, innovation and learner preparedness for a rapidly evolving digital economy.
derick.khumalo