Sundaymail Editor
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
ZIMBABWE and the United Arab Emirates have launched the country’s Digital Skills Programme in Harare.
The initiative was born out of a fruitful partnership between the two governments under the Government Experience Exchange Programme.
The event was attended by Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Tatenda Mavetera and Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Government Experience Exchange Programme in the United Arab Emirates, Abdullar Lutah, among other senior government officials.
Speaking during the event, Minister Mavetera said: “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a digitally empowered Zimbabwe.
“It is my honour to stand before you at the launch of the Zimbabwe Digital Skills Programme, an initiative born out of a fruitful partnership with the United Arab Emirates Government under the Government Experience Exchange Programme.
“As we embark on this transformative journey, we are guided by the goals and aspirations of our National Development Strategy and the visionary framework of Vision 2030, as articulated by our President, His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
“This programme is not just an educational initiative; it is a crucial step towards realising our collective dream of a prosperous, inclusive, and technologically advanced nation.”
The Zimbabwe Digital Skills Programme, she said, aims to train 1.5 million coders in essential skills such as Data Science Fundamentals, Programming fundamentals, Android Kotlin Developer Fundamentals, and AI fundamentals.
“This ambitious target reflects our commitment to empowering our youth with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” she said.
“This training programme will add impetus to the Digital Skills Ambassadors Programme that was launched at State House by our President, His Excellency, Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa on February 19 2025. The best time to build a generation of digitally astute citizens has passed and the next best time is today. In today’s global economy, digital skills are the new currency.”
She said these were vital for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
“By equipping our young people with these skills, we are not only enhancing their employability but also fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving that will drive our nation forward,” Minister Mavetera said.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the United Arab Emirates Government for their unwavering support and collaboration. Your commitment to sharing knowledge and expertise is invaluable as we navigate this digital transformation together.
“This partnership exemplifies the spirit of cooperation and mutual growth that we aspire to achieve.”
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