Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
VICE-PRESIDENT Kembo Mohadi has called on learning institutions to prioritise equipping students with self-reliance and critical thinking skills. He emphasised that this focus is vital for implementing the heritage-based curriculum, which aims to foster holistic development among learners.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Cde Albert Nguluvhe at the closing ceremony of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ) 2025 Sports Gala, held at Manama High School in Gwanda District yesterday, the Vice-President said learners should be taught to think independently, take ownership of their lives, and solve problems creatively.
“Competence-based approaches to education delivery promote talent identification among learners, while drawing on traditional methods of imparting knowledge and skills to our children. The true impact of an education system is seen when livelihoods are transformed through the utilisation of non-academic talents, which were previously undervalued compared to conventional classroom learning.
“Sport is not merely about athletes running, winning, or losing. It is a journey of learning to work as a team, to support and uplift one another. It is also a powerful tool for social development, fostering lasting relationships, creating new friendships, and enhancing our shared humanity,” he said.
The Vice-President highlighted that sport is a vital component of the education curriculum. He noted that schools are expected to embrace all sporting disciplines, as they contribute equally to the well-being of individuals. Physical training, while focused on fitness, also supports the moral, social, psychological, and emotional development of learners.
VP Mohadi commended the ELCZ for embracing Government policy on sport, recognising it as an integral part of the new Heritage-Based Curriculum.
“Learners and teachers alike must understand that sporting activities are compulsory within the school curriculum.
One of our greatest athletes, a swimmer by profession and former Minister of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Honourable Kirsty Coventry, is now the President of the World Olympics Committee and a multiple gold medallist.
“I am pleased to see that the ELCZ has demonstrated its full commitment to the development of sport in Zimbabwe by initiating various projects, such as establishing sports academies with diverse disciplines for learners. This provides them with greater choice in pursuing sporting excellence. Moreover, sport is a major economic driver, generating billions in revenue,” he said.
VP Mohadi said the theme of the sporting event — “Self-reliance and critical thinking in line with the heritage-based curriculum” — resonates strongly with the national education agenda. He explained that the country’s education system has been restructured to develop learners who are self-reliant and capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
“Let me hasten to add that self-reliance builds confidence. It is not merely about independence; it enhances belief in one’s abilities, leading to greater autonomy and self-motivation. It cultivates essential skills such as time management, organisation, and prioritisation.
“The intersection of critical thinking and self-reliance prepares learners for lifelong learning, enabling them to adapt to new situations and pursue continuous education. By fostering these attributes, our students will acquire skills that benefit them throughout their academic, personal, and professional lives,” he said.
The Vice-President also stressed that incorporating African culture and heritage into the curriculum helps develop a strong sense of cultural identity and pride among children, which in turn builds self-confidence and self-esteem. He said that as the country implements the heritage-based curriculum, it is vital to teach students how to think critically and solve problems.
In an interview during the same event, ELCZ Western Diocese Bishop Dr Michael Dube said the annual sports gala aims to promote the holistic development of learners in Lutheran church schools.
He said that the sports gala, introduced in 2006, brings together learners from all three dioceses to compete. This year’s event saw participation from over 15 primary and secondary schools in track events. Next year, the church plans to host ball game competitions.
“The sports gala is an annual event where we aim to ensure our learners are equipped not only academically but also in sports. It is a platform to identify potential sporting careers for our young people. We hold these competitions at both primary and secondary levels because we believe in nurturing talent from an early age. Schools from the Western, Eastern, and Central dioceses come together to compete.
“This year, over 15 schools participated in track events and indoor sports such as chess. Next year, another diocese will host the ball games,” he said.
At primary level, Burure Primary School from Midlands came first with 20 gold medals, while at secondary level,
Chegato Secondary School, also from Midlands, topped the rankings with 28 gold medals. The sports gala began on Wednesday.
@DubeMatutu
