Blessing Chizhande
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
SCHOOLS should equip learners with practical skills beyond academic knowledge to prepare them for different career pathways and livelihoods, a Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education official has said.
Harare Northern Central Education District Schools Inspector Mr Absalom Mudavanhu said education institutions should provide opportunities for learners to develop practical competencies alongside their academic studies.
Mr Mudavanhu made the remarks after visiting the ZAOGA Group of Schools recently, where he observed learners participating in activities including agriculture, music and art.
“I have liked the way the schools is addressing the 5.0 idea that is involve all learners in developing skills so that learners will have some exit profiles,” he said.
He said learners should be exposed to different forms of practical learning to complement their academic studies.
“I have seen also some guitars, which means that learners are also involved in some practical activities,” said Mr Mudavanhu.
“I have seen drawings also here to show that all learners are being involved. They may be involved academically and also involved in their skills.”
Mr Mudavanhu said agricultural activities were another example of how schools could expose learners to productive skills.
“There is a lot exhibited here as far as business units are concerned. You can see right now onions and potatoes there over there,” he said.
He said the practical activities demonstrated that education could develop learners in different areas according to their interests and abilities.
“I’ve liked also the presentations which are from ECD up to university, technical colleges, normal daily attendants, that is schools, the learners that are attending to their institutions,” he said.
Mr Mudavanhu said the approach was important in ensuring that learners were prepared for life beyond the classroom.
“From my own view as a member from the Ministry of Education, I have seen that there is a lot exhibited here,” he said.
He said the development of practical competencies should complement academic achievement and help learners establish different pathways for their future.
The emphasis on practical skills is in line with the broader thrust of Education 5.0, which seeks to complement teaching, research and community service with innovation and industrialisation.
Mr Mudavanhu said schools should therefore continue creating opportunities for learners to participate in activities that build practical competencies.
He said such an approach could help produce learners with diverse skills and capabilities rather than focusing solely on academic performance.
The official also said the school’s activities demonstrated the importance of involving learners across different levels of education in skills development.
He said education should ultimately produce learners with varied competencies and clear exit profiles that can support them in further education, employment and entrepreneurship.
Online Reporter