Online Reporter
Nothando Zondo
A push to improve education in Insiza South is beginning to show results, with local schools receiving much-needed support in the form of technology and sports equipment.
Insiza South legislator, Cde Spare Sithole, last week donated laptops and sports kits to Mapeume Secondary School, saying the move is part of wider efforts to strengthen learning in the area.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, he said more support is on the way, especially in improving access to technology in rural schools.
So far, the school has received 10 laptops and soccer balls for the girls’ team. Cde Sithole said the equipment is meant to improve learning while also encouraging pupils to take part in sport.
“Education is one of the best tools we have to change our communities. These laptops will help learners get digital skills that they need today. The sports equipment will also encourage learners to take part in games and do well in extracurricular activities,” said Cde Sithole.
He said work is already in progress to build a computer laboratory at the school, and he has committed to helping complete it.
Cde Sithole said he will assist with the remaining construction work and ensure the lab is connected to the internet.
He stressed the need for rural schools to keep up with modern learning methods, in line with Government efforts to promote digital access.
“In today’s world, learners must have access to modern technology and a good internet. I am committed to supporting the completion of the computer lab and bringing Starlink connectivity. This will help our learners use ICT properly and compete with students from other schools in the country and outside Zimbabwe,” said Cde Sithole.
Teachers and learners welcomed the donation, saying it will make a real difference in the classroom and help them adjust to digital learning.
Cde Sithole also visited Mapeume Primary School, where he was briefed on serious challenges affecting the school.
Heavy rains from the nearby mountains recently damaged several classroom blocks, washing away their foundations.
The damage has been described as severe, and the school has since been declared a state of disaster.
“The condition of the infrastructure at Mapeume Primary School is very worrying. No child should learn in an unsafe environment. We must act quickly to fix this and make sure learners are safe,” said Cde Sithole.
Despite the situation, lessons are still going ahead, thanks to the efforts of teachers, parents and the community.
Cde Sithole praised them for their commitment.
“I want to thank the school authorities, parents, and the community for your dedication. You are showing how much you value education by making sure lessons continue even when conditions are difficult. My duty is to make sure our schools get the support they need. We want every child in Insiza
South to learn in a safe place and with the right tools,” he said.
A parent who attended the handover at the secondary school said the support was long overdue.
“We are grateful for the help. Our children need computers and safe classrooms. If the MP keeps his promise, our children will have a better future.”
