Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
PRIMARY and Secondary Education Deputy Minister, Honourable Angeline Gata has urged learners across the country to transform the nation’s rich cultural heritage into innovative, practical skills that spurs national development.
Deputy Minister Gata said this on Wednesday while officially opening the 5th edition of the National Annual Science, Sport and Arts Festival (NASSAF) at Chancellor Junior School in Mutare.
Learners from the country’s 10 provinces showcased their talents, ranging from scientific inventions to traditional crafts and performances.
The festival was held under the theme – Promoting Skills Development through the Heritage-Based Curriculum.
Deputy Minister Gata said the festival is, not only a celebration of creativity, but also a vital component of the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which encourages learners to apply traditional knowledge in modern and productive ways.
“Our past is not a limitation, but a foundation. Our heritage is rich with wisdom, creativity, and development, use that and be innovative. From traditional weaving, stone carving, pottery, iron smelting and indigenous agriculture to storytelling, music and dance, these are, not just cultural expressions, but skills that can build businesses. You will surely drive national development with such skills,” she said, adding that festivals like NASSAF are a demonstration of how the local education is moving beyond theory to embrace practical and life-changing learning.
“These festivals act as a catalyst that provides opportunities to sustain, grow and further develop learner exit profiles. We want every learner to participate meaningfully in science, Sport and arts, not to concentrate on academic studies only,” she said, adding that the ministry is proud that learners are embracing scientific inquiry, innovation and creativity – all rooted in local culture.
“In the realm of science, this festival offers a platform for learners to engage in inquiry and experimentation. Learners were able to present their research projects, conduct live experiments and demonstrate their understanding of scientific concepts through interactive displays. This, not only enhances their scientific knowledge, but nurtures curiosity and passion for discovery. Future scientists are born in our schools,” she said.
Deputy Minister Gata also said the Heritage-Based Curriculum sought to make education more relevant by linking learning to Zimbabwean identity and national economic aspirations.
“It encourages innovation rooted in tradition. It teaches learners that creativity does not always begin with the latest gadget. Sometimes it begins with clay, reeds or rhythm,” she said, adding that the education strategy is aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy (NDS1) – both of which emphasise human capital development through skills training and practical learning.
“The trajectory of Vision 2030 has its focus on achieving an upper middle-income economy. It blends very well with this year’s theme, which emphasises skills development. The uptake of technical and vocational subjects provides learners with practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to various industries and sectors of the economy,” she said.
Deputy Minister Gata also challenged citizens to do away with the misconception that technical and heritage-based learning is for the less academically gifted.
“Let us combat the lingering notion that technical and heritage-based learning is for those who are not gifted. In fact, it is for those who think practically and culturally,” she said.
She also said the ministry remains committed to producing well-rounded learners capable of contributing meaningfully to national development agenda.
“The ministry is committed to nurturing individuals equipped with knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values necessary to contribute meaningfully to society and drive the nation towards sustainable development,” she said.
Permanent Secretary for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Abiot Maronge said Government policy is firmly anchored in supporting competency-based education that equips learners with practical and creative skills.
Mr Maronge said the festival demonstrated the Second Republic’s commitment to develop a digital economy and promoting arts, science and culture as integral parts of national development.
“Our President, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, always stresses that arts and culture are essential components for building national cohesion and are economic sectors in their own right, contributing to both the provincial and national GDP. This festival is a direct fulfilment of the President’s vision for a Zimbabwe built on innovation and skills diversification,” he said, while commending the ministry for nurturing young talent and creating platforms that encourage innovation, excellence and resilience,” he said.
Molline Tafura, a learner at Sharara Secondary School in Nyazura said:
“This festival has shown us that our hands can create beautiful things that tell our stories. I have learnt that art is, not just for fun, it can be a business and way to preserve our culture.”
Another learner, Tanatswa Makwara said: “The Heritage-Based Curriculum has helped us appreciate who we are as citizens. Through it, we learn skills that can sustain us after school. Seeing people admire our work today makes me proud and motivated to do more.”
