Sidumisile Mabena
Robin Muchetu in Maphisa
Vice President Kembo Mohadi has visited Mahetshe Primary School in Maphisa, the venue of this year’s Children’s Party to be held on 17 April, where he inspected ongoing works.
The Children’s Party will host a total of 3 050 learners from across Zimbabwe.
VP Mohadi was accompanied by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province Albert Nguluvhe.
Minister of Information Communication Technologies, Postal and Courier Services Tatenda Mavetera, together with her Deputy Dingimuzi Puthi, briefed VP Mohadi on the work done at the school regarding digital infrastructure.
“We are here at Mahetshe Primary School where the Ministry of ICTs has established a computer laboratory. We have not only done it here, but we have established another one at Mahetshe Secondary School too. We want to thank the visionary leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa where he says we must not leave any place behind,” she said.
Minister Mavetera said Matabeleland South Province must not be left behind as her Ministry seeks to connect all schools to the internet.
“We have also established computer laboratories in each and every district so that our children are not left behind and have access to computers and connectivity.
A total of 60 computers have been supplied by the Ministry for the primary and secondary school.”
VP Mohadi and his entourage also toured additional classrooms that have been built at the school, as well as a laboratory.
“As we have established this computer laboratory we also want to avail a laboratory and set up Star Link so that they have connectivity at each and every school,” said Minister Mavetera.
To assist in addressing issues around internet access for learners, the Ministry has also trained trainers who will be able to use the ICT gadgets.
“We have also managed to train over 2 000 people with digital skills and established six digital centres across the province. There is a lot of work that needs to be done in line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. After our President launched the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, it is important for us to avail tools and skills that are relevant for the future.
“As the Ministry we realised that it is important to establish computer laboratories and 28 free Wi-Fi hotspots that President Mnangagwa will launch and we believe that this is the right way to go to ensure that our young people have connectivity,” said Minister Mavetera.
After the tour, VP Mohadi expressed satisfaction with the progress made.
“You are doing a wonderful job. Well done, you are doing a great job,” he told Minister Mavetera and her team.
At least 3 050 delegates will attend the Children’s Party, of which 2 000 are drawn from Matabeleland South Province, with 50 from each of the country’s nine other provinces. Matopo High School will also be present with a choir of 50 learners.
Mass displays will also be represented by 500 learners.
Online Reporter