Mthabisi Tshuma [email protected]
TEN schools in Zimbabwe that have been connected to internet under a partnership between the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and SES Satellites, will receive free internet connectivity for the next three years.
The initiative will give learners and teachers access to online learning resources, research and digital skills development.
The initiative, implemented under the ITU’s Partner2Connect programme, seeks to extend connectivity to underserved communities globally through satellite broadband and school-wide Wi-Fi.
ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau director Dr Cosmas Zavazava said the project is expected to transform learning in rural and underserved schools, where access to the internet has long been a challenge.
“Under this initiative of connecting schools, there will be free internet connectivity that will be provided for the next three years. Nine have been connected with one in the process of being connected and should be on by November 10.
“The schools that have benefited are Chesa Primary School in Umguza District in Matabeleland North, Gampo Primary School in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South; Harawe Primary School in Masvingo District; St Michael’s Secondary School in Chipinge District, Manicaland; Gungwa Primary School in Mt Darwin District, Mashonaland Central; Gababe Primary School in Gokwe South District, Midlands; and St Boniface Primary School in Chegutu District, Mashonaland West, Kudyarawanza Primary, Mutigwa Secondary and Gababe Primary. Munyati Primary School will be the final one,” said Dr Zavazava.
Teachers say the connectivity will help learners access e-books, past exam papers, educational videos and online lessons, while also helping schools with administration and communication.
Parents and community leaders have welcomed the development, saying it will bridge the digital divide and give rural children the same opportunities as those in urban schools.
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