Shurugwi school, clinic connected to Internet through Starlink, solar rollout

A primary school and clinic in Shurugwi District have benefitted from Starlink connectivity and solar power systems, in a development that is expected to accelerate digital access and improve service delivery in rural communities.

The installation marks a significant step in the Government’s drive to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural institutions under the policy of leaving no one and no place behind.

The initiative, implemented through the TPM Foundation, has equipped Jongwe Primary School and Gamwa Clinic with internet access, computers, a printer and reliable solar energy, transforming the institutions into digital service hubs.

The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube, led the launch of the solar power and internet connectivity programme during a ceremony attended by teachers, learners, community members and Government officials.

He said the intervention, spearheaded by village head Mr Temba Mliswa, reflects the national development philosophy – Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo/Ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo.

“This development intervention underscores the New Dispensation’s mantra under the leadership of President Mnangagwa. In addition, TPM Foundation’s programme aligns with Section 12 of the Traditional Leaders Act on duties of village heads,” said Minister Ncube.

He said the programme supports the National Development Strategy 2 through digitalisation, ICT expansion, healthcare modernisation and human capital development.

Minister Ncube added that the project also advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 4, which focus on health and quality education.

“I therefore applaud Sabhuku Mliswa for the US$11 000 worth of solar systems, Starlink kits, computers and printers installed at Gamwa Clinic and Jongwe Primary School,” he said.

The programme is expected to expand to more schools, including Old Gate Primary, New Gate Primary, Dhlodhlo Primary, Tokwe Primary, Banga Primary, Makonde Primary, Gamwa Secondary, Gate Secondary, Mhangami Primary and Gundura Primary School.

Minister Ncube said the initiative also supports Government’s target of universal electrification of rural schools by 2026 as part of rural modernisation and industrialisation.

He said digital connectivity complements Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, which seeks to build innovation, industrialisation and practical skills.

TPM Foundation director Mr Mliswa said partnerships remain key to accelerating development.
“This approach demonstrates that we can achieve far more when we unite our resources and expertise for a common national cause. The President is always emphasising National Development Strategy Two, and this is the phase we are entering,” he said.

Shurugwi South Constituency legislator, Cde Wilson Mhuri, said the programme reflects broader efforts to ensure equal digital opportunities for rural learners.

“This gesture reflects a commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of where they live, has access to quality education and the tools they need to thrive. To the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, we are grateful for your leadership,” he said.

Community members welcomed the intervention, saying it would improve learning outcomes and widen access to educational resources.

Ms Edith Masimba said internet access would allow learners to conduct online research, access science and technology lessons and engage with educational platforms. “It is about equality and ensuring access to quality education for all learners, regardless of location, and we are very glad about this initiative because it will change the face of this area,” she said.