Nothando Zondo in Esigodini
LEARNERS have been challenged to embrace technology, innovation and practical skills as artificial intelligence and other technological advancements continue to transform the world of work, creating new opportunities and rendering some traditional jobs obsolete.
Umzingwane legislator and Defence Deputy Minister Brigadier-General (Rtd) Levi Mayihlome said the changing employment landscape required learners to move beyond traditional academic learning and acquire practical knowledge that would enable them to become innovators, entrepreneurs and employers.
Addressing pupils, teachers, parents and school development committee (SDC) members during Mzinyathi Primary School’s speech and prize-giving day ceremony last Friday, Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome said the country’s Education 5.0 thrust was critical in preparing young people for an increasingly technology-driven economy.
He urged learners to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and take advantage of emerging technologies rather than depend solely on formal employment.
“Be mindful of the importance of the reasons why the Government now focuses on Education 5.0, which emphasises practical skills education and innovation. Aspire to work for yourself and not to be employment seekers,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
He said technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, were rapidly changing the nature of employment, making it imperative for learners to remain adaptable and continuously acquire new skills.
“The world of technology is changing faster than some of us learn. What used to be the way of doing things or fashionable jobs 60 years ago might be unheard of today or totally irrelevant, having been overtaken by technology and particularly nowadays by artificial intelligence,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
He said Government was working towards equipping schools with modern learning tools, including laptops, tablets and interactive boards, to strengthen practical learning and expose pupils to emerging technologies.
The legislator also challenged learners to cultivate a reading culture, develop curiosity and seek to understand concepts rather than rely on memorisation.
“I urge you all to read and read, have an inquisitive mind and ask questions, do it yourself, don’t just memorise, read to understand and develop an inquisitive mind, especially with modern learning tools and gadgets,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
He urged pupils to remain disciplined, respect their teachers and parents and stay focused on their educational ambitions, saying education opened opportunities for personal advancement and meaningful participation in society.
Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome also encouraged learners who did not receive prizes to remain determined, saying academic performance at any particular stage should not define their future potential.
He warned pupils against drug and substance abuse, teenage pregnancies, early marriages and dropping out of school, saying such challenges could derail their education and undermine their future prospects.
“You can never make a difference when you are intoxicated with drugs. You will be a cost and burden on society and your own family,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
Turning to educators, the legislator commended teachers and support staff for their contribution to shaping future generations, describing teaching as a calling that demanded commitment, patience and exemplary conduct.
“Teaching is an art and a calling because it is not about repeating what is in the books. It takes a lot of effort to be a role model, a person of good standing on or off duty and an inspiration to all those you teach,” said Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome.
He also acknowledged parents and guardians for the sacrifices they make to keep their children in school.
As part of efforts to promote academic excellence and assist disadvantaged learners, Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome pledged US$20 to each of the best-performing pupils from Early Childhood Development to Grade Seven.
He further pledged US$40 to be shared equally between two academically gifted learners whose parents were struggling to meet school fees obligations.
The occasion held special significance for the legislator, who is a former pupil of Mzinyathi Primary School, having completed his Standard Six education at the institution in 1967.
Reflecting on his return nearly six decades later as guest of honour, Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mayihlome described the opportunity to address learners at his former school as a privilege.
He urged pupils to make use of the educational opportunities available to them and draw inspiration from their teachers, parents, Government and the wider community as they pursue their ambitions.
