Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
PRIMARY and Secondary Education Minister, Torerayi Moyo, has commissioned three state-of-the-art science laboratory blocks built at a cost of over US$140 000 at St Paul’s High School in Gokwe North District.
The development is a turning moment towards improved teaching of science subjects at the school as learners will benefit directly from these facilities as well as the entire community.
Minister Moyo told parents, teachers, learners and Government officials who attended the commissioning ceremony at the Roman Catholic-run school that having modern laboratories was a huge leap to a better world.
“These laboratories are more than mere physical structures. They serve as gateways to knowledge, exploration, and innovation,” he said.
“They embody our commitment to fostering a rich educational environment where curiosity thrives and scientific inquiry flourishes.
“Through these new facilities, we are not just enhancing our educational infrastructure but we are also investing in the future of our students and, by extension, the future of our community.”
Minister Moyo said the project was financed through a loan of US$149 000 from AFC Bank, a partnership that exemplifies the power of collaboration.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to AFC Bank for their unwavering support, which has made this vision a reality. Your commitment to empowering education in our communities is commendable and we look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership,” he said.
Minister Moyo said loan repayment is not just a financial obligation but an investment in the children’s future.
“I encourage you to ensure that all fees and levies are paid promptly. Our school’s income-generating projects have contributed US$16 000 towards this effort,” he said.
“These projects not only provide essential financial support but also equip our students with invaluable skills and train them to be entrepreneurs from a young age. I urge the community to continue supporting these initiatives, through either participation or patronage.”
Minister Moyo said US$22 000 was raised from levies adding that the investment is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the educational environment.
“I call upon every parent to honour their commitment to these levies as they play a vital role in enhancing our facilities and resources for the benefit of all students,” he said.
The construction of science laboratories, Minister Moyo said, is a pivotal component in advancing President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 which supports the goals of improving the quality of education and fostering innovation.
He said by providing students with access to modern laboratories, educational institutions can facilitate hands-on learning and experimentation which is crucial for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
“This aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on building a knowledge-based economy where scientific research and technological advancements play a key role,” said Minister Moyo.
“Furthermore, well-equipped science labs can inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators, driving economic diversification and sustainable growth, which are fundamental objectives of the vision.
“By providing our learners with state-of-the-art facilities, we are fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation that is essential for the future of Zimbabwe.”
Minister Moyo said developing adequate infrastructure is essential for implementing the curriculum adding that better infrastructure increases access to educational institutions, allowing more students to participate in the educational system with a wide variety.
He commended the school for its exceptional school feeding programme which ensures that every learner receives at least one hot meal each day. “This initiative does not only address hunger but also enhances focus and learning outcomes, allowing our students to thrive academically,” said Minister Moyo.
He said the Government has availed US$15 million towards school feeding and also availed 27 000 tonnes of mealie-meal in full realisation of the fact that Zimbabwe is a signatory of the Schools’
Meals Coalition and the Government has made a commitment to provide at least one hot meal a day for every child from Early Childhood to upper sixth form.
Also in attendance was the Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Owen Ncube.
