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Nqobile Tshili Chronicle Correspondent
THE Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has defended the National Pledge saying there is nothing amiss with it as its contents are derived from the country’s new Constitution.
Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Professor Paul Mavhima told the National Assembly last Wednesday that the pledge will be taught in the new educational curriculum.
MDC-T Binga North MP Prince Dubeko Sibanda had quizzed the Deputy Minister about the essence of having pupils reciting the National Pledge which he thought was being imposed on children.
Prof Mavhima said: “There are two foundations for the so called consensus. The first is the fact that virtually all the words for the national pledge are coming from our Constitution. If you recall, that Constitution was crafted based on a very elaborate and extensive national consultation. The second basis of that consensus is that the new curriculum of which the national pledge is a part was done after consultations that took place at every school in this country,” said Prof Mavhima.
He said the national pledge also aims at promoting patriotism among the school children.
“The national pledge is part of the heritage studies that the new curriculum is going to introduce. It’s designed to build on the commitment that our learners have to their country. It’s not unique to Zimbabwe. Many countries have similar pledges and in some countries even legislators, before they start their business, start with a pledge to their country. It’s designed to build on patriotism and commitment to one’s country, that’s the basis of the new national pledge,” said Prof Mavhima.
“Almighty God, in whose hands our future lies, I salute the national flag. United in our diversity by our common desire for freedom, justice and equality. Respecting the brave fathers and mothers who lost lives in the Chimurenga/ Umvukela and national liberation struggles,” reads the pledge.
“We are proud inheritors of the richness of our natural resources. We are proud creators and participants in our vibrant traditions and cultures. We commit to honesty and the dignity of hard work.”
The national pledge will be launched nationally on May, 3.
On the day parents and guardians are expected to accompany children to school for the launch where they are supposed to present gifts for the pupils.
Some churches are opposed to the pledge.
They insist children should salute God, not the national flag or any other image.
Online Reporter