Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Chronicle Reporter
MAGWEGWE High School is now connected to high-speed Internet, thanks to a Starlink kit donated and installed by former students from the school’s pioneer Class of 1985.
The installation, carried out by local ICT firm Yellow Communications, led by Mr Robert Ndlovu, is already benefitting learners and teachers by opening access to digital learning platforms and global educational resources.
Mr Ndlovu is an ICT and telecoms consultant based in Bulawayo, who, over the last decade, has been deploying solar-powered broadband solutions. Last year, with the support of alumni from Mzilikazi Primary School, Robert and his team launched the country’s first AI and Robotics training for teachers in partnership with Liquid Telecom and Sciency Africa. Magwegwe High School is next in line to benefit from this cutting-edge programme.
One of the former pupils behind the Starlink donation, Mthobi Ndlovu, says the initiative is a gesture of appreciation for the role the school played in shaping their lives.
“Magwegwe Secondary School opened its doors in 1982, and we were among the first students,” says Ndlovu. “Back then, it was a big deal to have a white headmaster, the late Mr Gerald Stanley Evans, working in a black community just after independence. He instilled discipline and encouraged us to read widely.”
He recalls how the school offered both academic and vocational subjects — from Mathematics, English, Geography and Science to Horticulture, Beekeeping, Building, Metalwork, Woodwork, Music, Agriculture and Home Economics.
“We were in the same class from Form One to Form Four, and although we went our separate ways for further education, we’ve remained in touch,” Ndlovu says. “We take pride in being part of the school’s first intake, and this connection has stayed with us over the years.”
Previously, the group contributed prizes for outstanding students at prize-giving ceremonies. Now, they take that support a step further.
“This time, we want to do something transformative,” says Ndlovu. “By donating and installing Starlink, we’re ensuring that learners at Magwegwe High have access to essential online learning tools. The Internet is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity for education.”
He adds that students and teachers are already using the connection to access learning portals, research platforms and virtual resources — tools that help bridge the gap between Magwegwe and the rest of the world.
“With more resources, we hope to introduce AI tools and robotics at the school. That’s where the world is going, and we want Magwegwe to be part of that future,” says Ndlovu. “We’ll continue working closely with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to ensure our efforts complement government initiatives to modernise education.”
He also commends the school head, Mr William Ncube and staff for welcoming their support and guidance. “They’ve been very appreciative and supportive. We see ourselves as silent partners, and we’ll always work with the school leadership to identify areas where we can assist further.”
Ndlovu believes the broader Magwegwe community stands to gain the most from the initiative. “Our humble beginnings are rooted in this school. It inspired many of us, and we believe that by working together, we can help uplift future generations. This technology empowers not just the learners, but the entire community.”
The Starlink system, developed by SpaceX, provides high-speed broadband via satellite and is ideal for schools in areas with limited connectivity. Its successful installation at Magwegwe High is already helping learners tap into a world of knowledge — bringing the future of education closer to home.
