Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau
THE Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, has officially commissioned a state-of-the-art US$25 000 chemistry laboratory at Bata High School in Gweru, designed to enhance the learning experience for science students.
The development at the Bata Shoe Company-run school is crucial for learners, providing them with hands-on experience to investigate chemical properties and reactions, understand complex concepts, and foster an interest in science.
A chemistry laboratory is essential for students, offering numerous benefits. By engaging in experiments and activities, pupils develop scientific reasoning, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Hands-on learning makes abstract concepts more tangible, increasing student engagement and improving information retention. This comprehensive learning experience prepares students for future careers in science and technology.
Addressing parents, teachers, and government officials at the commissioning ceremony last Friday, Minister Ncube said the development is expected to contribute to the province’s economic growth and development, in line with national aspirations outlined in Vision 2030.
“It is indeed a great pleasure for me to grace this momentous occasion of commissioning the state-of-the-art Bata High School Chemistry Laboratory, worth US$25 000. The event aligns with global aspirations, such as the United Nations SDG4 on ensuring access to quality, inclusive and equitable education regardless of gender or background, and resonates with the Second Republic’s commitment to infrastructure development in pursuit of quality education through an improved teaching and learning environment, underpinned by Public-Private Partnerships,” he said.
Furthermore, Minister Ncube highlighted the New Dispensation’s desire to accelerate the economy through collaboration with the private sector.
“In this regard, I wish to commend Bata Company for supporting community empowerment initiatives by investing back into the community it operates from,” he said.
Minister Ncube noted that since its inception in November 2017, the New Dispensation, under the able, listening and visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa, has made significant progress in the education sector.
This includes the discontinuation of the Cala model and the adoption of the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 Model, which integrates the country’s vision, history, culture and natural resources into the education system.
He said the new curriculum is designed to help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving and innovation skills, while also creating a skilled workforce that will support the country’s heritage-based and knowledge-driven economic recovery and growth.
“Bata High School was opened in January 2015 as a satellite of Chaplin High School before its registration in 2019 and currently has an enrolment of 355 pupils. I, therefore, applaud Bata Shoe Company for complementing the Second Republic’s development philosophy by constructing and equipping the Chemistry Laboratory through Corporate Social Responsibility and the Worldwide Bata Children’s Programme,” he said.
Minister Ncube revealed that the laboratory consists of a smart lecture theatre with a projector and digital board, adding that the facility is fully equipped with furniture, burners, taps, sinks, gas tanks and a preparation area for teachers to conduct and formulate experiments for class study, among other resources.
He urged community leaders, parents, and the private sector to ensure that every child in the Midlands province has access to quality and affordable education in a conducive learning environment, as championed by the Second Republic.
“The Second Republic is working on providing a conducive learning environment for children through key tangible programmes and projects, such as infrastructure development, the Presidential Internet Scheme, the computerisation programme, provision of power to marginalised schools, the expansion of ICT infrastructure including the BCS fibre network launched by His Excellency, the President in Somabhula, the expansion of network base stations, licensing of Starlink, and the development of rural model schools such as Neta Secondary School in Mberengwa and Budiriro Primary in Gokwe South,” he said.
Minister Ncube expressed confidence that the attainment of Vision 2030, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, is achievable.
“I, therefore, urge all teachers to fully commit to their duties to ensure high pass rates in schools. Parents should uphold their obligation to pay fees to enable the maintenance and expansion of schools. I implore learners to focus on their studies and avoid drug and substance abuse, early marriages, bullying, and dropping out of school for short-term benefits.”
