Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
MORE than 600 new schools have been constructed since 2022 with the Government optimistic of achieving a target of building a further 200 before the end of this year.
This unprecedented building programme is rapidly addressing critical infrastructure deficits and expanding access to education for children across the country.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Tonderai Moyo, revealed the significant progress in the national assembly on Wednesday, highlighting a multi-stakeholder approach that has been central to the initiative’s success.
“We carried out a study in 2022 and the findings of the study were that we had a deficit of 3 000 but now, I can happily inform this House that we have constructed more than 600 schools. Since 2022 until now in 2025, we have built more than 600 schools. This year, we are targeting to build not less than 200 schools in 2025,” said Minister Moyo.
The Minister elaborated that the term ‘construction’ encompasses projects undertaken not only by the Government but also by development partners, private organisations, churches, and individuals, all operating under the ministry’s regulatory framework.
Minister Moyo detailed the broad coalition of partners.
“I wish to inform this House that one organisation, the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints has built seven schools this year. The Church of Johane Marange is building more than eight schools this year. The Government itself has received funding from NBS and we have started constructing 25 schools for Government,” he said.
He further confirmed substantial international support, including a US$20 million pledge from the OPEC Fund for International Development and partnerships with governments like Algeria.
With school construction being a key performance indicator for his ministry, Minister Moyo expressed unwavering confidence in meeting the 2025 target.
“I can confidently say that this year, come 31 December, we would have constructed not less than 200 schools,” he said.
This massive infrastructure drive is a crucial step towards alleviating classroom overcrowding, reducing long travel distances for learners in rural areas, and ultimately improving the quality of education delivery nationwide.
