Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Writer
YOUNG politicians from Midlands Province are celebrating after receiving brand-new tablets in a major technology drive spearheaded by the Second Republic. Forty-four Junior Parliamentarians were presented with the gadgets as part of President Mnangagwa’s initiative to equip young people with essential digital skills.
Under this ambitious programme, around 1,5 million young people are expected to acquire digital competencies by 2030, and the Midlands rollout marks a significant step towards that goal. The tablets are designed to assist the young legislators with their studies and form part of a broader plan to bring schools online.
Beneficiaries have, however, been urged to use the devices responsibly and avoid cybercrime and inappropriate websites.
Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, presided over the recent handover of ICT gadgets to the Junior MPs.
“I am delighted to address you today as we gather for the handover of 44 tablets to 28 Junior MPs, seven girls’ quota Junior MPs, six Junior Senators, two Junior Senator Chiefs and one disability quota representative enrolled at schools in Midlands Province. This follows a similar occasion held on 12 June 2025 when I handed over 43 tablets to the 2024–2025 Junior Parliamentarians,” he said.
Minister Ncube emphasised that the provision of technology gadgets is critical to the education sector and resonates with President Mnangagwa’s National Digital Ambassador Programme launched in Bulawayo earlier this year.
“Today’s event aligns with Zimbabwe’s National ICT Policy, NDS1 pillars on digital economy, human capital development and innovation, heritage-based Education 5,0 and competence-based curriculum. Students will engage with fundamentals of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which encompasses personalised learning, digital literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving,” he said.
Minister Ncube revealed that the 41 schools represented by the Junior MPs will soon receive Starlink kits, a development he described as highly commendable. He applauded President Mnangagwa for donating ICT gadgets and providing modern internet infrastructure, including base stations, optic fibre networks, community information centres, computer labs and innovation hubs for both urban and rural schools.
“The era of carrying satchels loaded with textbooks is now over as Artificial Intelligence-powered applications strengthen teaching, learning, community service, research and development. However, I urge the Junior MPs to use these gadgets responsibly as the digital highway presents unique challenges, including cybercrime and anti-social behaviour influenced by foreign cultures and traditions,” he said.
Minister Ncube also urged beneficiaries to remain disciplined, exhibit exemplary leadership and stay focused on their studies.
“I implore you to embrace the guidance and support provided by the First Lady, Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa, through her community-driven programmes, which include career guidance and counselling sessions for learners, as well as anti-drug and substance abuse campaigns, rehabilitation and empowerment initiatives through the Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mbare,” he said.
The Minister reiterated President Mnangagwa’s call for the young generation to take responsibility for defending the country’s independence, safeguarding national sovereignty and driving economic prosperity and transformation of livelihoods.
“It is through these efforts that we collectively secure and empower the future generation,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu