Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
LEARNERS at Beitbridge Mission Primary School are set to spend less time waiting for a turn on a computer and more time developing practical digital skills following a major upgrade to the school’s computer laboratory.
The school, which is the oldest learning institution in Beitbridge, has received 25 new desktop computers, improved internet connectivity and a renovated computer lab through a donation from Zimborders Consortium.
The development is expected to benefit more than 1 000 pupils enrolled at the school, including 53 learners with special needs who rely on the institution for their education and support.
Until recently, limited computer resources made it difficult for pupils to gain enough practical experience during ICT lessons. With classes averaging around 40 learners, several children often had to share a single computer, reducing the time each learner could spend developing digital skills.
Teachers worked around the challenge by rotating pupils in groups, but school authorities say the arrangement often limited hands-on learning.
The latest donation has significantly changed that situation.
School head Mrs Monica Ndlovu said the school previously had only 20 computers available for the entire pupil population.
“That has now changed. With the 25 new computers and renovations done by Zimborders, the lab now has more than 45 working computers. 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,” said Mrs Ndlovu.
For teachers, the upgrade means learners can now have more meaningful interaction with technology instead of merely observing others during lessons.
For pupils, it provides an opportunity to develop skills that are becoming increasingly important in education and everyday life.
The benefits are particularly important for a school that serves a diverse group of learners.
Run by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ), Beitbridge Mission Primary School caters for children from different backgrounds, including learners with special needs. The school also operates a boarding facility for 18 learners with special needs, comprising 12 girls and six boys.
School authorities believe improved access to technology will help create a more inclusive learning environment and prepare pupils for future educational and career opportunities.
Speaking during the official handover of the renovated laboratory last Thursday, Zimborders Consortium shareholders’ representative Mr Travor Ncalo said introducing children to technology at an early age is essential.
“We recognise the importance of embracing digital migration in the education sector from the grassroots and primary level. 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,” he said.
Zimborders is the consortium that partnered with the Government in the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, a project valued at US$300 million.
Since completing that landmark project, the company has continued supporting community initiatives across the district, particularly in education and social welfare.
Zimborders General Manager Mr Nqobile Ncube said supporting schools forms part of the company’s commitment to community development.
“We have heard the needs that come with caring for children in these facilities. 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,” he said.
This is not the first time the consortium has assisted the school.
Earlier this year, Zimborders donated 130 pairs of school shoes to pupils. The donation benefited families who often struggle to meet the costs associated with education and helped ensure children attended school comfortably and with confidence.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the latest support, saying access to technology is becoming increasingly important in preparing learners for the future.
ELCZ Education Secretary Mrs Thumisang Tabela said the donation complements national efforts to improve education and equip learners with relevant skills.
“This gesture by Zimborders fits well into NDS1, NDS2 and Vision 2030 on human capital development, ICT and innovation, and private sector engagement. When children learn computers early, they gain skills for jobs and for life,” she said.
While the computers, internet connection and renovated laboratory are important additions, many believe the real value of the project lies in the opportunities it creates for learners.
Every day, hundreds of children walk through the gates of Beitbridge Mission Primary School hoping for a better future. The upgraded computer lab gives them greater access to the digital world and the chance to develop skills that will serve them long after they leave the classroom.
For a school that has educated generations of children in the border town, the new laboratory is more than a room filled with computers. It is a place where learners can gain the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
