Innovation hubs propel Heritage-Based 5.0 curriculum

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Sunday News Reporter

COLONEL Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga yesterday officially launched an innovation hub at Mtshabezi High School in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South Province emphasising stakeholders’ commitment to fully implement the Heritage-Based 5.0 Curriculum.

The newly established facility is designed to foster collaboration among students through research and project development, enhancing visual learning and digital literacy while providing easier internet access.

The innovation centre features interactive boards, smart screens, web cameras, document readers, and a projector, although the school is still in the process of acquiring laptops for the hub. The space was created by renovating an old church house on the school grounds.

The inauguration coincided with the school’s annual speech and prize-giving day, celebrating students who excelled across various disciplines throughout the year, along with recognising staff members for their dedication and service.

Mtshabezi High School has fully embraced the Heritage-Based 5.0 model and is simultaneously running several initiatives, including a poultry project with approximately 1 500 chickens, a horticulture project, and an orchard.

The school has also recently built a multi-purpose pavilion and is working on solarising the premises among other developmental projects. Additionally, the institution has integrated technical graphics and musical arts to complement its science curriculum and plans to introduce food technology as a new subject.

The school currently enrolls 800 pupils. The event was themed “Empowerment: Providing Access to Quality Education and Skills to Enhance Employability and Entrepreneurship.”
In her address, Col Baloyi-Chiwenga called for a collaborative approach to investing in innovation and technology within educational institutions.

“The theme resonates with the Government’s vision of enhancing education through the Heritage 5.0 model. While education historically focused on preparing students for white-collar jobs, the rapidly evolving technological landscape demands a different approach,” she said.

“We must prepare learners to excel academically while equipping them with practical skills for productivity and innovation. Students should graduate ready to thrive in today’s dynamic environment. A paradigm shift is necessary.”

Col Baloyi-Chiwenga highlighted that achieving these educational objectives requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government, parents, educational institutions, and development partners.

She noted that today’s learners will become the catalysts for future economic growth and praised Mtshabezi High School for its significant advancements in implementing the Heritage 5.0 curriculum through various income-generating projects and innovative strategies. She also commended the school for its inclusivity, including programs for visually impaired students.

“We must invest in vocational training and apprenticeships to equip young people with essential skills. Leveraging technology and promoting entrepreneurship in education is critical,” she stated.

“Our current educational framework is designed not only to prepare students for traditional jobs but to empower them to be innovative and industrious. Let’s encourage our children to maximize their skills and capabilities.”

Col Baloyi-Chiwenga congratulated the high-achieving learners, urging them to avoid drug and substance abuse, while encouraging school authorities to implement strong measures to combat these issues.

Mtshabezi High School headmaster Mr Morgen Moyo also spoke at the event, emphasizing the innovation centr’s potential impact on academic achievement.

“This hub is vital for our mission to deliver quality education and skills that enhance employability and entrepreneurship. Our school continuously seeks to expand its academic and sports curriculum to develop well-rounded students,” he said.

“We are proud of our consistent academic performance, achieving a 97 percent pass rate at O Level and 100 percent at A Level last year, which we aim to maintain. In sports, our teams have excelled in various disciplines, including basketball, athletics and public speaking.”

@DubeMatutu