Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
Beitbridge Mission Primary School, the border town’s oldest school, has received a major digital boost after the Zimborders Consortium renovated and equipped the institution’s computer lab with 25 desktops and upgraded internet facilities.
Speaking during the handover of the computer lab yesterday, Zimborders Consortium shareholder’s representative Mr Travor Ncalo said the project advances national efforts to expand ICT access in schools and builds human capital in line with National Development Strategy 2.
Mr Ncalo said the company’s work is guided by the need to improve social protection and build strong communities.
“We recognise the importance of embracing digital migration in the education sector from the grassroots and primary level,” he said.
“Children must learn ICT skills early so they are ready for the future. We will continue exploring more ways to help the community. The computer donation shows our company’s belief in starting digital education at primary level.”
“As we move from NDS1 to NDS2, the pillars are shifting to social security. Bigger corporations must make sure children are in school and have basic needs. We are moving with the Government on this,” said General manager Mr Nqobile Ncube.
Beitbridge Mission Primary School is run by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ), serving over 1 000 pupils. Among them are 53 learners with special needs.
In addition, the school also runs a boarding facility that houses 12 girls and six boys with special needs, and for many years, the school struggled with limited ICT resources.
School head Mrs Monica Ndlovu said before the donation, they were relying on 20 computers for the whole school, with each class averaging 40 learners, and pupils had to share.
“That has now changed. With the 25 new computers and renovations done by Zimborders, the lab now has more than 45 working computers,” said Mrs Ndlovu.
“Previously, we could not give every child enough time on a computer. Now we have a full set. Each class can come in and learn practical ICT skills.
“The school administration has also been given computers and internet by Zimborders, so we can keep records and communicate better.”
ELCZ Education Secretary Mrs Thumisang Tabela, a retired national education secretary, said the donation fits well with national plans.
“This gesture fits well into NDS2 and Vision 2030 on human capital development, ICT and innovation, as well as private sector engagement. When children learn computers early, they gain skills for life,” she said.
