STEM revolution hits Chipinge rural schools

Brian Matikiti
Correspondent
EFFORTS to promote the uptake of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in rural communities received a significant boost recently after three schools in Chipinge District were equipped with mobile laboratories.
The beneficiary schools are Rimai Secondary School, Rukangare Secondary School and Rukangare Primary School.
The initiative, which is expected to transform the learning experience for hundreds of learners, was made possible through a partnership involving the Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZ), UNICEF and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
The provision of mobile laboratories is set to enhance practical learning and research opportunities, while advancing the objectives of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030, which seek to promote equitable access to quality education and empower communities through science and innovation.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Primary and Secondary Education Deputy Minister and Mutema-Musikavanhu legislator, Honourable Angeline Gata, said the donation reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that learners in rural areas enjoy the same educational opportunities as their urban counterparts.
“The donations are aligned with President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which seeks to build a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society. The initiative also aims to connect the unconnected and revolutionise the education system by improving access to quality learning, research and experimentation facilities,” said Deputy Minister Gata.
She said the programme will particularly help increase the participation of girls in STEM subjects and promote gender-responsive education.
The intervention has been welcomed by educators, who believe the mobile laboratories will significantly improve the teaching and learning of science subjects.
Rimai Secondary School headmaster, Mr Evans Nyaunga, expressed gratitude for the donation, saying it will help learners gain practical experience and improve academic performance.
“We are grateful for this support. The mobile laboratory will go a long way in enhancing the teaching and learning of STEM subjects by providing learners with hands-on practical experience. We anticipate improved pass rates and a greater appreciation of science among our learners,” he said.
The mobile laboratories are expected to bridge the gap between rural and urban schools by providing access to modern learning tools and resources that have often been beyond the reach of many rural institutions.
Mutema-Musikavanhu Constituency Ward 25 councillor, Councillor Pioneer Manyama Gavhumende, also commended the initiative, describing it as a milestone in the development of education in the district.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to President Mnangagwa, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and all partners who made this programme possible. This is a noble gesture that will positively impact the lives and futures of our learners,” he said.