Online Reporter
Nothando Zondo, [email protected]
MVUTHU Primary School in Umzingwane District has commissioned a school bus, a computer laboratory, a modern kitchen and a fowl run — projects expected to improve access to education, enhance digital learning, and strengthen practical skills among rural learners.
The four facilities were officially commissioned on Friday last week by Umzingwane Member of Parliament, who is also the Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier-General (Retired) Levi Mayihlome, under the theme “Enhancing Learning Through Digital Technology and Safe Mobility.”
The development highlights the growing importance of local schools embracing innovative ideas to improve service delivery in the education sector, especially in rural areas where learners often face challenges of long distances, limited resources and lack of exposure to technology.
Speaking at the event, Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome said the school bus was more than just transport.
He said the commissioning of the school bus represents an investment in the safety, welfare and equal access to education for learners.
“Reliable transport will reduce challenges associated with travelling long distances and will enable learners to participate confidently in academic competitions, inter-school sporting activities, cultural exchanges and educational tours,” he said.
He added that the new computer laboratory was critical in preparing learners for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“We are living in an era where digital literacy is no longer a luxury but a necessity. By providing our learners with access to ICTs, we are equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in agriculture, mining, healthcare, commerce and all sectors being transformed by technology,” said the Deputy Minister.
The modern kitchen, he said, will improve the school’s feeding programme by enabling meals to be prepared under hygienic conditions, while the fowl run will teach learners poultry production, entrepreneurship and business management.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. Exposing learners to poultry production at an early age cultivates practical skills, innovation, teamwork and business acumen. Beyond hands-on learning, the project will strengthen the school’s income-generating initiatives and contribute to its sustainability,” he added.
The Deputy Minister commended the Government, parents, the School Development Committee, local leadership and development partners for their collective effort.
“Today demonstrates what can be achieved when we unite behind a common purpose. I extend sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed financially, materially and through their unwavering commitment,” he emphasised.
Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome urged learners to safeguard the facilities and called on parents and communities to continue supporting the school.
He also challenged schools, churches and leaders to intensify awareness against drug and substance abuse.
The Deputy Minister said schools must provide guidance and counselling, while parents and community leaders must work together to protect the children.
“We must nurture disciplined, morally upright and productive young citizens,” he said.
“The commissioning of the four projects aligns with National Development Strategy 2, which prioritizes human capital development, and Vision 2030’s goal of an upper middle-income economy driven by quality, inclusive education.”
