Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
RURAL learners at Mupfure Secondary School in Shamva are embracing digital learning following the establishment of a US$19 783 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub aimed at improving access to technology and enhancing teaching and learning.
The facility, established by SOS Children’s Villages in 2024, comprises 15 computers, furniture, a refurbished computer laboratory and a solar power system, enabling uninterrupted access to digital learning for both learners and teachers.
The intervention is benefiting the school’s 181 learners while also supporting teachers with improved access to digital teaching resources.
In addition, 15 vulnerable learners enrolled under the SOS Children’s Villages programme are receiving 50 percent school fees assistance, uniforms and stationery over a five-year period to ensure they remain in school.
SOS Children’s Villages family-strengthening programme coordinator Mr Malven Manyeza said the organisation’s interventions were centred on strengthening families, schools and communities as a way of safeguarding children’s rights.
Mr Manyeza said the ICT hub formed part of broader efforts to ensure children in rural communities were not left behind in the country’s digital transformation.
“We are sensitive to the role of ICT in development. That is why we supported Mupfure Secondary School by establishing an ICT hub with computers, furniture, refurbishment of the room and solarisation of the facility. It is part of making sure that young people in the community have access to ICT,” he said.
He said the organisation was complementing Government efforts through partnerships with communities, development partners and various institutions to improve children’s access to education and other essential services.
Mupfure Secondary School head Mr Nobert Mumbamarwo welcomed the intervention, saying it had transformed the school’s learning environment.
“The ICT hub has completely changed the way our learners are accessing technology. Before this intervention, most of our learners had very limited opportunities to use computers, but they are now developing digital skills that will prepare them for higher education and the modern workplace,” he said.
“The support goes beyond computers. The solarisation of the facility ensures that learning continues even during power outages, while the assistance being provided to vulnerable learners is helping keep children in school. We appreciate SOS Children’s Villages for complementing Government efforts to improve education in rural communities.”
Learner Denzel Chadzamira said the facility had broadened his career aspirations.
“Before the computers came, I only heard people talking about ICT. Now I can use a computer myself and learn practical skills. It has inspired me to pursue a career in Information Technology because I now understand how important digital skills are in today’s world,” he said.
The ICT hub is one of several community development initiatives being implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in the district, alongside livelihood projects, vocational skills training and school infrastructure development, all aimed at improving children’s access to education while strengthening families and communities.
